Though European leaders have been excluded from Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Ukraine, meetings on Thursday in Brussels and London aimed to demonstrate Europe’s continuing commitment to supply Ukraine with the weapons it needs to repel Russian invaders.
An EU Summit in Brussels culminated with a commitment from all member states except Hungary to affirm that “the European Union maintains its ‘peace through strength’ approach,” a policy that commits European governments to supporting Ukraine in preserving “its own robust military and defense capabilities.” (Hungary’s pro-Kremlin Prime Minister Viktor Orban maintains his objections to support for Ukraine.) Russia’s Vladimir Putin insists that no comprehensive ceasefire is possible if Western governments continue to help arm Ukraine.
In addition, discussions in London have focused on a possible “reassurance force” that the “coalition of the willing” would provide. This so-called Multinational Force Ukraine would be intended to encourage confidence in the country’s security by providing air cover, a naval presence in the Black Sea to protect trade flows, and about 20,000 troops on the ground. Critics of the idea say a force this small may instill some confidence but can’t keep the peace. Proponents insist the force would be strong enough to protect cities, ports, and the most vital energy infrastructure.