The European Union, in the present circumstances, sees as its major tasks in helping Ukraine and showing the Russian leadership that their actions are unacceptable, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso has said in an interview with the Koelner Stadt-Anzeiger newspaper, which was published on Monday.

At the same time, he described the current crisis in Ukraine as "the most serious challenge to Europe's security since the fall of the Iron Curtain."

"We have experienced terrible wars in the Balkans. But at that time the security of Europe as such was not in danger. Today, at least some EU member states are in direct danger due to a flagrant violation of international law by Russia. This feeling should not be underestimated, because feelings quickly become realities," he said.

"We need to support Ukraine as actively as possible on its path to democracy and stability. That's the most important thing," Barroso said.

He also said that it was necessary to make clear to the Russian leadership that its line is unacceptable to the European Union.

Barroso reiterated the EU's position: "The EU is not prepared to accept Ukraine as its full member, but political association, free trade, financial assistance and technical assistance from the EU can be a driving force for the development of Ukraine, its stability and its prosperity. Poland is the best example."