G7 declaration of support for Ukraine: what does it include?

On 12 July, the G7 members signed a joint declaration outlining the long-term security and economic support they plan to provide to Ukraine in the wake of Russia’s invasion. 

In addition, the G7 also promised to create a “reform programme” to help Ukraine “on its path to Euro-Atlantic integration”.

In particular, the declaration stated that the G7 would provide the following support:

• Ensuring a resilient force capable of defending Ukraine and deterring future Russian aggression;
• Strengthening Ukraine’s economic stability and resilience, including through reconstruction and recovery;
• Creating an environment conducive to Ukraine’s economic prosperity, including its energy security;
• Providing technical and financial support to meet Ukraine’s immediate needs arising from the Russian war;
• Enabling Ukraine to continue to implement an effective reform agenda necessary to move towards its Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

The declaration states that Ukraine, in turn, is committed to reforms to “underline its commitments to democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights and media freedom”, as well as to “put its economy on a sustainable development path” and, of course, to strengthen “democratic civilian control over the military”.

Also, it recognises the need to create an international mechanism for compensation for the damage caused to Ukraine by Russia.

Ukraine’ reaction

The President of Ukraine commented on the G7 declaration. He said the summit in Vilnius brought “a necessary and important success for Ukraine”.

The Ukrainian delegation is taking home a significant security victory for Ukraine. This opens up new security opportunities for us, – he stressed.

Zelenskyy added that the Ukrainian authorities had received a significant “security guarantee package for Ukraine on its way to NATO”. In conclusion, Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine is currently coordinating with G7 partners on commitments that will be expanded in the future through agreements with major allies.

The European Commissioner also added that the G7 nations will continue to impose sanctions against Russia. 

In addition, they will also hold the aggressor state accountable for its war crimes, while the EU will support Ukraine on its reform path towards Euro-Atlantic integration.

US President Joseph Biden also commented on the adoption of the declaration. He noted that this document is evidence that the West’s support for Ukraine will continue for a long time.