European Union leaders gathered at a specially convened meeting in Brussels to address the growing threats from an increasingly assertive Russia and wavering support from the United States. The meeting highlighted the urgency to strengthen European defenses and bolster support for Ukraine, while also navigating various challenges including maintaining unity among member countries and addressing Hungary’s critical stance toward Ukraine. Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the pressing danger faced by Europe, calling it a “watershed moment”, while Roberta Metsola urged concrete action, stating that it was time for Europe to back its pledges with financial support.
The leaders discussed options to finance a significant increase in military spending, including a plan to offer 150 billion euros in loans for investments in defense technologies. They also explored a potential peace plan for Ukraine and ways to financially and militarily support the nation. The European nations are united in showing support for Ukraine amid a shifting global landscape, as the U.S. under President Trump has taken a different stance in dealing with Russia.
Although Russia rejected the idea of European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine, European leaders are considering various strategies to strengthen their defenses and respond to the new security challenges. France’s proposal to use its nuclear deterrent to protect Europe and discussions about forming a coalition to support Ukraine indicate a growing cooperation among European allies. The meeting also involved discussions on making E.U. budget rules more flexible to enable increased investments in defense without breaching deficit limits, with the overall goal of ensuring a more secure and independent future for Europe.
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