The European Union is preparing its own list of demands for any settlement of Russia’s war against Ukraine, according to a document reported on February 20, 2026.
The document
The paper, titled “European Core Interests in Ensuring a Comprehensive, Just and Lasting Peace and Continent’s Security,” was circulated among member states by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. It was first reported by RFE/RL earlier in the week and is due to be discussed by EU foreign ministers on February 23.
Withdrawals
It calls for Russia to withdraw its forces not only from Ukraine but also from Belarus, Moldova’s breakaway Transnistria region, Georgia and Armenia, and to remove the nuclear weapons it has deployed in Belarus.
Reciprocity
If Ukraine is required to cap its armed forces or withdraw from areas, Russia should face similar requirements, the paper says. Territories Ukraine may be forced to cede must not be recognised de jure as part of Russia.
Justice
The EU also wants compensation for damage to European states and companies, no blanket amnesty for war crimes, access for international investigators, entry bans for Russians who took part in the war, free and fair elections in Russia, the release of political prisoners and the return of deported civilians and children.
Sources
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