Some 20 European leaders are set to convene in Paris on Monday in response to escalating tensions in Ukraine, aiming to counter Russian President Vladimir Putin’s narrative of inevitable victory in the ongoing conflict.
The meeting, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, comes amidst concerns over recent Russian aggression and the need to reaffirm European solidarity.
According to Macron’s advisers, the primary objective is to deliver a resolute message to Putin that his ambitions in Ukraine will not succeed. Despite initial successes, Ukraine has faced challenges on the battlefield, highlighting the urgency for coordinated action and support from European allies.
Expected attendees include German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, British Foreign Minister David Cameron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, along with leaders from Scandinavian and Baltic nations.
The United States will be represented by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Jim O’Brien, and Canada by Defence Minister Bill Blair.
French officials emphasize that the meeting aims to foster unity and dispel any notions of pessimism following recent events, such as the passing of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny.
While the summit will not announce new weapon deliveries to Ukraine, the focus will be on enhancing operational efficiency and bolstering coordination between allies and Ukraine.
Amidst renewed Russian aggressiveness, including provocative actions like Putin’s flight on a nuclear-capable bomber, European leaders seek to reaffirm their commitment to ending the conflict and restoring Ukraine’s rights.
The summit serves as a platform to reaffirm collective resolve and solidarity in the face of Russian aggression, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation among European nations.
