New Delhi: European leaders have come together to bolster support for Ukraine, especially after US President Donald Trump halted military aid to the war-torn nation.
The European Commission is planning to borrow up to $160 billion to boost investments in its armed forces. This plan gained approval from EU countries that typically depend on the US and NATO for defense. Leaders are urging a swift review of this proposal.
The EU’s defense summit in Brussels took place amid rising concerns that, with Trump reducing support, Russian President Vladimir Putin might target an EU country next. Trump’s action has made European leaders question their reliance on the US for defense.
“Today, we have shown that the European Union is building a stronger defense and supporting Ukraine,” said European Council President António Costa. The EU also announced steps to enhance its own military capabilities.
Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, unveiled an ambitious €800 billion plan to significantly boost European defense spending, calling it “a turning point for both Europe and Ukraine.” Some of this funding could go toward military assistance for Ukraine. Costa emphasized that the best security guarantees come from Ukraine’s own efforts, though EU diplomats recognize they can’t fully replace the military aid previously provided by the US.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated, “Europe must rise to meet this challenge and succeed in this arms race.” He expressed confidence that Europe could win any military or economic confrontation with Russia, asserting that they have the strength to prevail.
After the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the importance of Europe developing its own self-defense capabilities, regardless of Ukraine’s situation.
Previously, US military aid made up 30% of Ukraine’s weapons and ammunition requirements. This support included long-range rockets, tanks, armored vehicles, howitzers, and Patriot air defense systems.
The US has not only paused military equipment shipments but has also halted intelligence support and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. This decision comes as Trump seems to be pressuring Ukraine for a peace deal with Russia, without guaranteeing the country’s security in the process.
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