Key Points:

• French President Emmanuel Macron commits €2 billion in military aid to Ukraine.
• Over 30 European leaders meet in Paris to discuss defense strategies amid continuing conflict.
• Discussions center on stronger military support, ceasefire efforts, and future peace guarantees.

In a significant diplomatic gathering, European leaders convened in Paris on March 27 to strengthen military support for Ukraine as the war with Russia continues to pose challenges. The summit, described as a coalition of the "willing and able," included representatives from over 30 countries, including key figures such as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. The meeting, informed by ongoing Russian hostilities, focused on immediate support for Ukraine, critical discussions on ceasefires, and considerations for a potential European "reassurance force" in the country.

President Macron emphasized the need for continued resistance against Russian aggression, announcing a commitment of €2 billion in military aid that includes advanced equipment such as missiles and warplanes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also attended the summit, hoping to clarify international commitments to a possible peacekeeping force in the future. Such a force aims not only to deter any renewed aggression from Russia but also to facilitate a framework for peace negotiations.

The summit's agenda reflected growing European anxiety regarding the waning support from the United States and the need for a solid European stance to assist Ukraine. Discussions comprised how European nations could deploy military resources and intelligence to reinforce Ukraine's defense mechanisms. Macron stated, “The future of the European continent and our security are at stake,” reinforcing the urgency of European collaboration on this front.

While the summit aimed to project a unified European response, concerns were raised regarding the definition and nature of the proposed reassurance force. Italy, for instance, remained hesitant, with Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani asserting that any military personnel deployment would need to be sanctioned under United Nations mandates. The differing opinions among partner nations underscore the complexity of forming a cohesive strategy amid differing national priorities.

The summit represented a critical step in establishing a structured response to the ongoing crisis. As the coalition looks to finalize support and strategy, it remains imperative for them to share insights with the U.S. administration, despite its absence during the discussions. The outcomes of this gathering are expected to influence not only Ukraine's immediate military needs but also the broader political landscape of European security dynamics in light of Russia's continued aggression. For further details, visit Le Monde, Reuters, New York Times, or Channel News Asia.