Last weekend, the Embassy of Denmark in Ukraine hosted an event at the temporary space TORV on Kontraktova Square in Kyiv. This location was chosen purposefully, as it was designed by Danish architect Mikael Colville-Andersen. During the formal part of the event, speeches were delivered by Ukrainian officials and diplomats. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Yevhen Perebyinis expressed gratitude to Poland for its leadership in the European Council during challenging times when the EU served as a cornerstone of security for Ukraine.
He thanked the Danish Ambassador to Ukraine, Ole Egberg Mikkelsen, for prioritizing the issues of achieving a just peace in Ukraine and the future expansion of the EU, particularly through the partnership between Ukraine and Moldova. Yevhen Perebyinis expressed hope that under the Danish presidency, Ukraine's EU accession process would reach its final stages, as the country has completed its homework. Acting Chargé d'Affaires of Poland in Ukraine, Piotr Lukasiewicz, emphasized that Poland will continue to support Ukraine and its EU accession process.
It is noteworthy that Denmark will hold the EU Council presidency in the second half of 2025. Each EU member state takes turns leading the Council for six months, and this time Denmark has taken over the responsibilities from Poland.
During his speech, Ambassador Mikkelsen highlighted the importance of forming a strong and resolute EU that takes responsibility for its own security. He stated that this requires the EU to back its statements with concrete actions in response to the challenges facing a united Europe.
“I usually say we have three priorities: weapons for Ukraine, weapons for Ukraine, and weapons for Ukraine. But of course, not just weapons. Ukraine is very important to us because you will be part of our security, part of European security, and we must support you on your European path,” the Ambassador said in a brief interview.
He emphasized that it is a crucial time for Ukraine, and European support is more important than ever. Responding to questions about nighttime air alerts and shelling, Mikkelsen remarked that the alerts affect him just as they do Ukrainians. He acknowledged that waking up in the middle of the night is unpleasant, but he is fortunate to have a bomb shelter in his home.
Denmark is also involved in humanitarian projects in Ukraine, particularly supporting the reconstruction of Mykolaiv, where recently nine new trolleybuses were delivered. During the event at Kontraktova Square, the premiere of the “March of European Solidarity,” composed by Danish composer Morten Jessen after his tour in Ukraine, took place. This march will be performed in various European cities during Denmark's EU presidency.
