In February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, prompting condemnation from the EU, UK, and nations around the world. Many countries have supported Ukraine, including providing military equipment, training, and economic and humanitarian aid. Sanctions have been imposed against Russia and Belarus, but concerns have been raised about their effectiveness. The EU adopted its first national security strategy, “The Strategic Compass”, in March 2022, and cooperation between the EU and NATO has intensified. The EU and UK are expected to contribute significantly to the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine, with a new commitment from the UK to provide £3 billion in loan guarantees for the next three years.
The House of Lords European Affairs Committee is set to conduct an inquiry into the potential impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on the relations between the UK and the EU. The inquiry will not only focus on the immediate crisis management but also on the long-term issues. The main areas of concern include the cooperation between the UK and the EU on sanctions, the EU’s developing defence policy, the reconstruction of Ukraine, and the changes in the EU’s broader approach to external affairs. The Committee plans to examine various themes, such as the overall foreign and security policy response of the EU, UK-EU collaboration on sanctions, the EU’s defence policy, the future reconstruction of Ukraine, and the EU’s broader positioning on foreign policy and future priorities. Interested parties and organizations are encouraged to submit written evidence by October 27, 2023, and public evidence sessions are expected to take place between September and November. The Committee aims to report to the House of Lords by January 2024.
Click here to read the call for evidence from the European Affairs Committee.