Rome – United for Ukraine delegation advocating for a Central Europe without grey zones

Group photo. Photo: ESI

ESI’s Gerald Knaus was invited to participate in a visit to Italy by the United for Ukraine (U4U) network. U4U is a global network of over 350 MPs and state officials from more than 30 countries supporting Ukraine. Initiated by former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius and a coalition of MEPs and national MPs, the network focuses on advocacy efforts.

During their two-day visit in Rome, the delegation had meetings with Italian MPs, government officials, think tanks, and civil society representatives.

Key discussions included initiating EU accession talks for Ukraine in 2023, committing to Ukraine’s single market entry if conditions were met, and starting the NATO accession process at the Vilnius summit in July. The delegation’s members made the case for merit-based access to the EU single market and the four freedoms for Ukraine.

They met with top-level politicians such as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, highlighting the importance of a proactive enlargement policy for lasting peace in Central Europe. Gerald said that there should be no grey zones in Central Europe.

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Andrius Kubilius and Gerald Knaus. Photo: ESI