On the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Malta called for intensified European Union diplomatic engagement with international partners to protect Ukraine and reinforce unity across Europe.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg delivered the message during the February meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels held yesterday, where foreign ministers discussed stepping up pressure on Moscow amid continued and intensified attacks on Ukrainian civilians.

Dr Borg stressed that coordinated European action remains critical at a pivotal moment for the continent.

“Coordinated messaging and increased outreach are essential to protect Ukraine and safeguard the EU’s unity and democratic resilience. Acting together gives the EU far greater weight than any member state acting alone,” he said.

While reaffirming Malta’s support for ongoing efforts aimed at securing a comprehensive and lasting peace for Ukraine, Dr Borg underlined that diplomacy must be reinforced by sustained pressure on Russia, in full respect of international law.

He argued that the EU should continue pursuing additional restrictive measures and broaden engagement with international stakeholders to weaken Russia’s capacity to sustain its aggression. This includes dismantling sanctions-evasion networks, such as the so-called shadow fleet, while ensuring that measures do not disproportionately affect EU member states or their citizens.

Turning to developments in the Middle East, Dr Borg called for immediate de-escalation in the West Bank, warning that recent land administration decisions are fuelling instability and undermining prospects for a Two-State Solution.

He also referred to the implementation of the Gaza Peace Plan, noting that Hamas’s refusal to disarm remains a major obstacle to advancing reconstruction and facilitating humanitarian assistance.

“Prioritising early recovery and reconstruction efforts is essential to building the foundations for sustainable peace and long-term security in Gaza. Restoring basic infrastructure and essential services are crucial steps towards stabilising communities and fostering social and economic resilience,” he added.

The Foreign Affairs Council meeting comes at a critical juncture for both Ukraine and the broader region, as the EU seeks to maintain unity, uphold international law, and strengthen its role as a global diplomatic actor.