On Tuesday, May 25, during the EU summit, the member-states held a strategic debate on Russia, the press-service of the European Council reports.
With this, EU leaders discussed in detail the issues of EU's relations with Russia and condemned the “illegal, provocative and disruptive Russian activities against the EU, its Member States and beyond”. The EU reaffirmed its unity and solidarity in the face of Russia’s acts as well as its support to Eastern partners. The European Council expressed its solidarity with the Czech Republic and supported Czech response.
In addition, the European Council emphasized the importance of five principles governing EU policy vis-à-vis Russia. The Council invited the High Representative and the Commission to present a report with policy options on EU-Russia relations in line with these principles, with a view to the next meeting of the Council, which will take place in June 2021.
It was noted that the EU shall continue cooperation with like-minded partners.