Malta Urges Enhanced EU Coordination on Ukraine and Middle East at Foreign Affairs Council

Malta Calls for Unified EU Action

Ian Borg, Malta's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, attended the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels on February 23, 2026. During the session, Borg underscored the critical need for enhanced European Union coordination regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the volatile situation in the Middle East.

Malta's participation came on the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a context that amplified calls for sustained diplomatic collaboration and pressure on Russia.

Strengthening Support for Ukraine and Pressure on Russia

During the Council meeting, Minister Borg reaffirmed Malta's commitment to supporting Ukraine and stressed the importance of continued diplomatic engagement with international partners to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable peace. He highlighted that 'coordinated communication and enhanced international collaboration are essential to protect Ukraine and to safeguard the unity and democratic resilience of the EU.' Borg further argued that collective action significantly amplifies the EU's influence compared to individual member states.

The Maltese Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that diplomatic efforts must be complemented by increased pressure on Russia, strictly adhering to international law. He urged the EU to explore additional restrictive measures and broaden engagement with a wider array of stakeholders to weaken Russia's capacity to sustain its aggression. This includes disrupting evasion networks, such as the so-called 'shadow fleet,' without disproportionately affecting member states and their citizens. Discussions at the Council also touched upon the 20th sanctions package against Russia, with Malta, alongside other maritime nations like Greece, reportedly raising reservations concerning a proposed ban on maritime services for Russian tankers.

De-escalation and Humanitarian Aid in the Middle East

Turning to the Middle East, Minister Borg called for immediate de-escalation in the West Bank. He expressed significant concern over recent developments in land administration, which he stated are increasing instability and jeopardizing the prospects of a Two-State Solution. He also addressed the implementation of the Gaza peace plan, noting that Hamas' insistence on not relinquishing its weapons poses a substantial obstacle to advancing reconstruction efforts and scaling up humanitarian assistance.

Borg stressed the urgent need to rebuild basic infrastructure and essential services in Gaza to lay the foundations for sustainable peace and long-term social and economic resilience. Furthermore, he advocated for the immediate lifting of restrictions impeding humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza and for the full implementation of the ceasefire and hostages exchange agreement. He concluded by asserting that the EU must consistently uphold international law, particularly concerning Gaza and the West Bank, and collaborate with Arab partners on the Gaza Plan while supporting the reform process of the Palestinian Authority.