Unexpectedly early, the EU countries' heads of state and government could conclude the formal part of their extraordinary summit in Brussels.
By then, all 27 EU countries had accepted the comprehensive upgrade plan presented by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday.
History has been written. We are leaving this meeting very determined to guarantee Europe's security. We will invest more, better and faster together, says von der Leyen at the press conference afterwards.
This does not mean that everything is settled and clear. First, the usual processing of all details at ministerial meetings and in other constellations is required.
"Hungary is wrong"
However, when it comes to Ukraine, the unity is no longer total, since Hungary has said a clear no to the statement prepared in advance.
Sweden regrets this, although the Prime Minister is not surprised.
It has been completely obvious that it would go in this direction. The big thing is that 26 countries agree. The small – but serious – thing is that one country refuses to create unity, says Ulf Kristersson after the meeting.
I think Hungary has got it wrong in its entire analysis and conclusions, and I am in very good company in that opinion.
Grateful Zelenskyj
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyj again participated as an extra guest at the summit. Kristersson says that the EU leaders had a "long conversation" with Zelenskyj during lunch.
— He feels, I believe, very strongly that we 26 others continue to stand by his and their side. Not least his side when he is now being personally attacked so hard. It is important to emphasize that there is strong confidence in his ability, says Kristersson.
On his way into the meeting, Zelenskyj thanked for the support after the dramatic meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House last week.
Throughout this entire time and last week, you have stood with us. We are very grateful that we are not alone, said Zelenskyj.
Fear of sanctions
Kristersson and many of his colleagues see it as more important at present to have a strong statement on Ukraine from 26 countries, rather than a weak and watered-down one from all 27.
At the same time, concerns are raised about what the consequences will be when EU countries next extend their sanctions. Then, full unity will again be required – with a green light also from Hungary.
It is completely obvious a big problem, says Ulf Kristersson in Brussels.
The EU countries' heads of state and government gathered for an extraordinary summit in Brussels on Thursday.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyj participated as an extra invited lunch guest.
The EU countries backed the EU Commission's plan "Upgrade EU", which includes a new support fund of 150 billion euros and opportunities for EU countries to obtain exemptions from normal debt and deficit rules when it comes to defense investments.
Regarding Ukraine, 26 of 27 countries – all except Hungary – approved a joint statement on continued strong support.
