The Foreign Policy Network of the Party of European Socialists (PES) convened online yesterday to commemorate the three-year anniversary of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine and to update the party’s position on the ongoing war.
During the meeting members discussed how as progressives we should approach the shift in American foreign policy concerning the transatlantic relationship, defence, and how to best support Ukraine, its territorial integrity, and its sovereignty.
PES Secretary General Giacomo Filibeck said:
‘‘The Party of European Socialists stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine as we commemorate three years of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we are reminded of the fragility of democracy and those who are giving their lives to defend it.
As Socialists and Democrats, we will always stand with those who fight to protect democracy and the rule of law. The preservation of international law is the backbone of our way of life and something we cannot allow to be eroded.’’
Chair of the FPN Network, PES Vice President, and PvdA member of the House of Representatives Kati Piri said:
‘’As progressives, we must recognise that our response must be both immediate and strategic. We cannot afford to be passive observers and allow Russia and the US to reach a deal without Ukraine and the EU; we must be active participants in shaping the future we want to see.’’
Members of the Foreign Policy Network also commended the President of the European Council António Costa, the progressive prime ministers including Pedro Sánchez, Mette Frederiksen, Jonas Gahr Støre, and Kristrún Frostadóttir, executive vice-presidents of the European Commission, Teresa Ribera and Roxana Mînzatu, commissioners Dan Jørgensen and Glenn Micallef, all from the PES Family who were all in Kyiv yesterday alongside other European leaders to re-confirm our full support to Ukraine.
