Europe to lead the charge in seeking peace for Ukraine after emergency summit
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday, March 2, the creation of a "coalition of the willing," comprising nations prepared to defend any forthcoming peace agreement and guarantee Ukraine's security.
To support Ukraine's defence capabilities, the United Kingdom pledged £1.6 billion ($2 billion) in export financing to procure over 5,000 air defence missiles manufactured in Belfast, Northern Ireland. This initiative complements a previously announced £2.2 billion loan for military aid to Ukraine, funded by frozen Russian assets.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also introduced the "ReArm Europe" plan, proposing to unlock €800 billion (approximately $840 billion) to enhance defense capabilities across member states. This plan reflects the EU's recognition of an "era of rearmament" and aims to reduce dependence on external powers for security.
In a decisive move to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, European leaders convened an emergency summit in London on March 2, 2025. The summit aimed to bolster support for Ukraine and assert Europe's role in seeking a peaceful resolution, especially in light of shifting U.S. policies.
The summit occurred amid strained relations between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, following a contentious meeting at the White House. This tension has prompted the suspension of military aid to Ukraine.
