BRUSSELS (Reuters) -26 European heads of state and government said in a statement that Ukrainians must have the freedom to decide their future and that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukrainian and
EU Leaders Affirm Ukraine's Right to Determine Its Own Future
EU Leaders' Statement on Ukraine
BRUSSELS (Reuters) -26 European heads of state and government said in a statement that Ukrainians must have the freedom to decide their future and that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukrainian and European interests.
Context of Ceasefire and Negotiations
"Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities," the leaders said, adding that "we share the conviction that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests."
Exclusion of Hungary from Agreement
The statement, which was agreed late on Monday and published on Tuesday, was endorsed by leaders of all EU member countries except Hungary.
(Reporting by Lili Bayer;Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta)
