Ukraine has applied to join the European Union (EU), and is now a candidate country for membership. We strongly support engaging with Ukraine on its path toward EU accession and advocate for its integration into the European Union. We condemn Russia's aggression against Ukraine and demand the immediate withdrawal of Russian forces to uphold Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity. 

Additionally, we emphasise the importance of the transition to clean energy to reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels, thereby supporting Ukraine's fight for freedom. The Group stresses the urgency of making the EU energy independent to stop funding Putin's war in Ukraine. 

Furthermore, we advocate for accelerating the transition to renewable energy to aid Ukraine and reduce fossil fuel dependency. We also highlight the significant number of refugees fleeing Ukraine and support extending temporary protection mechanisms to provide immediate aid to displaced persons. Overall, we view Ukraine's integration into the EU as crucial for promoting peace, independence, and solidarity in the region.

Keywords: war, Ukraine, Russia, Putin, aggression, fossil fuels

Hamas and Israel are engaged in a longstanding conflict in the Middle East characterised by violence and retaliation. The recent escalation began with Hamas's brutal attacks against Israeli civilians on 7 October, resulting in a disproportionate response from the Israeli military. The Greens/EFA Group condemns both parties' actions and calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where thousands have been killed, including many children and aid workers.

The Group emphasises the need to respect international humanitarian law and supports diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation. We advocate for humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza and urge the release of all hostages. While recognising Israel's right to defend itself, we stress the importance of avoiding civilian casualties and advocate for an end to the occupation for a fair political solution. We emphasise the two-state solution as the best path towards peaceful co-existence for Israelis and Palestinians.

Keywords: war, Israel, Hamas, ceasefire, peace, Gaza, two-state solution, hostages, Israelis, Palestinians

Push backs are illegal attempts to stop migrants and refugees from reaching the EU. To stop push backs at EU borders, we advocate for a welcoming Europe, with a migration policy grounded in human rights and solidarity. We condemn the violence, arbitrary detention, and pushbacks migrants face at EU borders, emphasising the need for safe and regular migration channels. 

The Greens oppose agreements with authoritarian regimes aimed at preventing people from arriving, advocating instead for policies that uphold the right to seek asylum and respect the human rights of migrants. We criticise right-wing narratives that scapegoat migrants and advocate for comprehensive policies addressing societal and economic challenges. 

We believe that fulfilling human rights obligations, like refugee protection, and building inclusive societies will uphold European values and enrich societies culturally and economically. We oppose the recent reforms of the Common European Asylum System, which we see as even more repressive than the current system and failing to uphold migrants' rights. We call for an end to EU funding for countries engaging in human rights violations at borders and urges the European Commission to take action against such practices.

Keywords: pushbacks, migration, immigration, refugees, asylum, asylum seekers, eu borders