Today marks three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine—a tragic milestone in a conflict that, in truth, began eleven years ago with the illegal annexation of Crimea and Donbas. This act of aggression shattered the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, fundamental pillars of the international order. As we reflect on these three years of devastation and determination, one thing remains crystal clear: Our unwavering support for Ukraine is not only a moral duty but a strategic imperative.

The EU’s stance is unequivocal. Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. Russia is the aggressor, and there can be no reward for its aggression. Any compromise on these principles would undermine the very foundation of international relations. Russia wages a neo-colonial, imperialist war against a sovereign member of the international community and will not stop at Ukrainian borders.

This commitment is not mere rhetoric. The EU and its Member States have emerged as Ukraine’s leading donor, providing €134.7 billion in support, including €48.7 billion in military aid. The EU Military Assistance Mission has trained over 73,000 Ukrainian troops, enhancing Ukraine’s capacity to defend its sovereignty and the shared values we hold dear. The EU and its Member States including Poland, which is Ukraine’s neighbouring country and the current president of the EU Council, remain united in supporting Ukraine economically, financially, militarily and in terms of humanitarian assistance.

The recent developments have underscored two critical realities: unity within the EU is paramount, and stepping up support for Ukraine is more urgent than ever. However, as we increase our support, we must remain vigilant. Russia’s strategic manipulations cannot dictate the terms of peace. Any credible peace talks must involve Kyiv and Europe. The principle is clear: “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.” A century ago, history taught Montenegro what it means not to be at the table when decisions are made about the future of a country. No nation in the world should have to face a similar destiny.

Montenegro’s role in this shared struggle deserves recognition. Since the onset of the war, Montenegro has provided over €10 million in aid, including military assistance and humanitarian relief. Montenegro’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) has been exemplary, with all sanctions packages against Russia implemented and unwavering support for peace initiatives demonstrated through consistent co-sponsorship and favourable votes at the United Nations.

Most recently, Montenegro’s Council for Defence and Security approved the Armed Forces’ participation in both the EU Military Assistance Mission and NATO's Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine. We trust Montenegrin Parliament will soon adopt these critical decisions, reinforcing the country’s commitment to collective security.

But above all, Montenegro stood up when it mattered most, when millions of Ukrainian refugees poured across Europe. This country holds the distinction of being the first non-EU country to grant temporary protection status to Ukrainian refugees. According to some estimates, Montenegro received more Ukrainian refugees per capita than any other country in the world. Montenegro’s generous provision of healthcare and accommodation reflects the compassion and solidarity of its society and will never be forgotten.

We stand now at the precipice of history, where wrong decisions could jeopardise everything the European Union has fought for since its inception. As some old partnerships are tested and the rules-based international order crumbles, we must be more united than ever. We must recognise that Ukraine’s struggle is our struggle. Its security is our security. Today, as we mark this sombre anniversary, let us renew our pledge: we will stand with Ukraine, and we will not abandon the Ukrainian people.