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Regional Leaders Reaffirm Support for Ukraine at Odesa Summit as Vučić Withholds Signature
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![Photo of Liubava Petriv]( "Photo of Liubava Petriv")
On June 11, a joint declaration was released following the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit in Odesa, where participating leaders reaffirmed support for Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing full-scale invasion.
Key points from the declaration include:
Russia’s war against Ukraine is described as “a grave crime against the Ukrainian people.” Participants voiced continued commitment to supporting Ukraine “for as long as it takes” and emphasized the importance of seeking a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace through diplomatic means;
The declaration urges the international community to step up its support for Ukraine and refrain from “any material or other assistance” to Russia’s military efforts;
Peace conditions outlined include the full withdrawal of Russian troops and equipment, an end to hostilities, and the restoration of Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders;
Future membership of Ukraine, Moldova, and Southeast European partners in the European Union is described as crucial for long-term regional stability, security, and prosperity;
The leaders also underscored that NATO membership remains the most effective security guarantee for Ukraine.
“We reaffirm our support for the Euro-Atlantic aspirations of our regional partners. We support Ukraine on its irreversible path toward full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership,” the declaration reads.
However, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić did not sign the summit’s joint declaration, which condemns Russian aggression and calls for additional sanctions against the Russian Federation.
Speaking to reporters after the event, Vučić clarified that there had been no pressure on him to sign the document:
“No one pressured me to sign the declaration,” he said, adding that he refused to do so because it includes a demand for imposing sanctions on Russia.
According to the official declaration published by Ukraine’s Presidential Office, Vučić was the only summit participant who did not sign the joint statement.
Earlier, it was reported that Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić visited Ukraine for the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion. He reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and offered help with post-war recovery.
