The Republic of Cyprus remains committed to building a strong, resilient, and reliable Europe in the field of security and defence, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas, said during a press conference following the informal meeting of EU Defense Ministers in Nicosia. From her part EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, spoke about the bloc's support to Ukraine, while stressing the need for more pressure on Russia. She also referred to developments in the Middle East and her views on a standing EU army.