The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe has adopted the Declaration condemning russian aggression against Ukraine. The document reaffirms support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and sets out measures to support communities affected by the war.

This was announced by Vitalii Bezgin, Minister for Communities, Territories and Internally Displaced Persons of Ukraine.

He said the Declaration provides support for Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, in particular:

• long-term direct funding for frontline communities, the protection of critical services, and the strengthening of energy resilience;
• the development of direct partnerships between Ukrainian and European cities and regions;
• long-term rehabilitation for children affected by the war;
• holding russia accountable for its aggression and supporting mechanisms for compensation for the damage caused.

‘This is a clear message: acts of terror against civilians cannot go unanswered,’ emphasised Vitalii Bezgin.

The Minister also thanked the Congress for its support for the European Union’s macro-regional strategy for the Carpathians. He said that such strategies are an effective tool for cohesion policy and can serve as a practical path to the EU for Ukraine and other candidate countries.

Vitalii Bezgin also thanked the members of the Congress who supported the Declaration, the team at the Mission of Ukraine to the Council of Europe led by Mykola Tochytskyi, and the delegation of Ukrainian self-government led by Liliia Pashynna.

The Declaration was considered during the 51st session of the Congress of the Council of Europe.