EU and NATO military leaders on a solidarity visit to Ukraine

Brussels – “In a strong demonstration of transatlantic unity”, as a statement explains, General Seán Clancy, Chairman of the European Union Military Committee (EUMC), and Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee (CMC), undertook a joint visit to Ukraine from 20 to 25 April. The visit, the EUMC statement continues, “reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of both organisations to the defence of Ukraine against the ongoing aggression by Russia.”

During their mission, the military leaders held talks with General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis, focusing on Ukraine’s immediate battlefield needs, long-term security guarantees, and strategic coordination between the EU and NATO. The two also visited frontline positions to assess the impact of Western military assistance and training programmes.

“Ukraine’s resilience is Europe’s resilience,” said Clancy, reiterating that “the EU stands firmly by Ukraine’s side, providing comprehensive support, from financial aid to advanced military equipment, for as long as it takes to secure victory.”

Dragone reinforced this message, stating that “NATO’s commitment to Ukraine is unwavering. Our collective efforts ensure that Ukraine has the means to defend its sovereignty and our shared security interests.”

The visit highlighted the complementary roles of the EU and NATO in strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities, including industrial cooperation, battlefield innovation, and strategic planning. Both commanders emphasised that Ukraine’s security remains a cornerstone of European stability and requires sustained and coordinated international support.

While Ukraine continues to adapt and innovate in the face of relentless aggression, “this joint visit,” the statement concludes, “marks a unified, long-term approach aimed at ensuring its success on the battlefield and beyond.”