G20 Summit: EU supports India's efforts for Consensus Leaders' Declaration, reaffirms stand on Ukraine crisis

• The EU supports India's efforts to finalise a consensus leaders’ declaration at the G20 Summit
• The EU remains resolute in its support for Ukraine and its readiness to impose penalties on Russia for its actions
• Charles Michel highlighted the importance of addressing Russia's behavior and its isolation within the international community during the G20 meeting

The European Union (EU) is extending its support to India's efforts to reach a consensus leaders' declaration at the upcoming G20 Summit, according to European Council President Charles Michel. While addressing a media briefing ahead of the G20 Summit scheduled for September 9-10, Michel emphasized the EU's unwavering commitment to backing Ukraine against Russia's aggression and its readiness to impose penalties on Russia for the invasion.

Michel acknowledged the potential challenges in reaching a final communique at the summit, particularly due to the Ukraine crisis. He expressed the EU's dedication to defending its principles while also endorsing India's efforts to facilitate an agreement among the participating leaders. 

“I don’t know if this is possible or not to have an agreement on a final communique, we will see. But we will defend our principles and will also support the efforts made by India,” Michel said. He refrained from making any “tough statement”, and instead said “give space to the Indian presidency to work actively, maybe sometimes discreetly, to maximise the chance for a communique”.

Michel further underscored Russia's increasing isolation from the international community, particularly due to its violation of the UN Charter despite its status as a permanent member of the Security Council. He expressed hope that the G20 meeting would serve as an opportunity to shed light on Russia's actions and their impact, emphasizing the need for clarity on Russian behavior.