Brussels— European leaders convened an emergency summit in Brussels and reached a consensus on significantly increasing defense spending, reinforcing support for Ukraine following the abrupt halt of US military aid and intelligence sharing by former President Donald Trump.
Macron Condemns Russian Expansionism
French President Emmanuel Macron strongly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling him an “imperialist who seeks to rewrite history.” Macron rejected Russian criticism of his remarks, stating that the Kremlin’s response only confirmed that its agenda had been exposed.
Hungary’s Obstruction Undermines EU Unity
While 26 EU leaders, including Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, endorsed a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to Ukraine, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán declined to support the declaration, isolating his country from the bloc. European Council President António Costa emphasized that Hungary’s position was an outlier within the EU.
Zelenskyy Welcomes European Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who attended the summit in person instead of via video link, expressed gratitude for European backing. He questioned whether Russia was truly willing to end its aggression, citing the Kremlin’s continued military expansion. Zelenskyy also announced an upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming to bolster international support.
EU Unveils €800 Billion Defense Plan
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed an €800 billion ($860 billion) initiative to strengthen European defense, calling it a pivotal moment for the continent’s security. She stressed that European nations must prepare to defend themselves, particularly as US leadership in global security remains uncertain.
The plan includes a €150 billion loan scheme within the EU budget and revised fiscal policies that could unlock an additional €650 billion in defense investments. However, implementation depends on national governments’ willingness to allocate resources.
US Decision Sparks Diplomatic Tensions
The US’s abrupt decision to cut intelligence sharing with Ukraine has intensified concerns about Western unity. US envoy Keith Kellogg defended the move, comparing it to “hitting a mule with a two-by-four to get their attention.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian opposition figures confirmed meetings with Trump’s representatives but denied any intention to oust Zelenskyy.
European Defense Strategy Shifts
EU leaders are under increasing pressure to meet NATO’s 2% defense spending target. Countries like Spain and Italy, which currently fall short, face mounting calls to boost their military budgets. Germany, historically resistant to heavy defense spending, is reconsidering its fiscal policies. Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz is advocating for discussions on expanding British and French nuclear protection to Germany, signaling a dramatic shift in Berlin’s strategic outlook.
Europe’s Security at a Crossroads
As Europe confronts escalating threats, the EU’s latest commitments mark a significant step toward military self-sufficiency. However, uncertainty lingers over whether European nations can fully compensate for the US’s diminishing role. With global tensions rising, Europe faces a defining moment in shaping its defense and security policies for the future.
