Today, the European Commission adopted a comprehensive strategy to step up support for the EU eastern regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, facing multiple challenges in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Strengthening the prosperity and resilience of these regions is not only an expression of EU solidarity but also a strategic investment in Europe's security, competitiveness, and future stability. Several regions from nine Member States – Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria – have been affected by hybrid warfare, weaponised migration, economic and trade disruption, and demographic decline. Since the outset of Russia’s war against Ukraine, the EU has extended political, technical, and financial support to its eastern regions to improve infrastructure, boost economic resilience, develop defence capabilities, address challenges in energy and connectivity, and support employment opportunities. Additionally, the EU–Ukraine Solidarity Lanes have sustained trade.