The document states that in the event of “future aggression,” the EU and Ukraine intend to consult within 24 hours regarding Kyiv’s needs and “swiftly determine” next steps according to obligations. The commitments would “help Ukraine defend itself in the long term, deter acts of aggression and resist destabilization efforts,” EU foreign affairs spokesperson Peter Stano said. At the same time, the deal is far from explicit mutual defense pacts such as NATO’s Article 5. According to EU officials, the agreement is more of a promise to provide Ukraine with weapons and other assistance to strength…