To mark one year since cities and regions as well as the CoR started to support Ukraine following the Russian full-scale invasion, EPP-CoR members held a debate and pledged their commitment to do whatever it takes to support Ukraine but asked for further support.
Gustaw Marek Brzezin, President of Warmińsko-Mazurskie Region (Poland) said "Until recently we were neighbours, now we are brothers - the head of Rivne Region in Ukraine told me during our meeting in March. The consequences of the war require real support: basic products, building materials, medical vehicles and rehabilitation centers for wounded soldiers."
José Enrique Millo Rocher, Secretary General for External Action, European Union and Cooperation, Government of Andalucia (Spain) said "From Andalucia we demand that we do not lower our guard in condemning the invasion and massacre of the Ukrainian people. We believe that it is essential to ensure a cross-cutting action of support and aid and we pledge to continue to ensure healthcare and all other services to the displaced population."
Aires Pereira, Mayor of Póvoa de Varzim (Portugal) said "The Municipality of Póvoa de Varzim, has responded to more than 120 support requests from Ukranian citizens, 30 of whom are children who were integrated in our public schools. Sadly, and after one year of the Russian invasion, we have realized that the required solutions are not just temporary. European Municipalities are realizing the dangerous impact of the war in our local development plans. I urge the European Union to reverse the negative impacts of the war on the housing sector, by enabling the Municipalities with the much-needed resources and financing to grant decent and affordable housing for all."