Europe’s Military Powers Reaffirm Support for Ukraine

Defence ministers from Europe’s leading military nations—France, Germany, Britain, Italy, and Poland—convened in Paris to reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine’s military resilience. The meeting concluded with a joint declaration aimed at enhancing European support for peace, including faster defence industry collaboration with Kyiv, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu emphasized that bolstering Ukraine’s army is a cornerstone of its security, stating, “The true long-term security guarantee lies in the capabilities we provide.” Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto echoed this, noting that Ukraine’s future hinges on its ability to defend itself. The ministers also pledged to align their defence strategies within the EU and NATO, reinforcing Europe’s role in continental deterrence while maintaining strong transatlantic ties.

The Paris talks followed Ukraine’s acceptance of a US-proposed 30-day ceasefire on March 11, negotiated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, without European involvement. The US-Ukraine deal includes renewed American security aid and preliminary access to Ukraine’s mineral resources. Though excluded from the talks, European leaders welcomed the progress and stressed their ongoing efforts to fortify Europe’s defences.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius raised the need for an independent European defence framework, a concern heightened by potential US disengagement. He advocated for streamlined regulations and standardized weapon systems across Europe to enhance collective security. The ministers’ united stance underscores Europe’s determination to support Ukraine and strengthen its own strategic autonomy amid shifting global dynamics.