Taras Zhovtenko

International Security/Defense Analyst

Russian ongoing military aggression against Ukraine and EU security policy in 2024

One the key objective of the European project was to ensure the role of the European continent as an important actor in world affairs through strong economic and diplomatic relations.

Peace was established as a core element of the project, which was built on the aftermaths of the World War II, and its model of freedom and equality was intended to be adopted by other parts of the world.

The values and objectives of the EU that determine its relations with the rest of the world, as stated in Article 3 of the Lisbon Treaty, include the promotion of European values and interests, the promotion of peace and security, the protection of human rights, as well as respect for the Charter of United Nations.

Throughout its history, the European Union have adopted foreign policies following those objectives and values. Humanitarian aid, development cooperation and trade have also prevailed as major aspects of EU foreign policy.

The Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) is the core of EU security strategy and policy.

CSDP enables the Union to take a leading role in peace-keeping operations, conflict prevention and in the strengthening of the international security. It is an integral part of the EU's comprehensive approach towards crisis management, drawing on civilian and military assets.