France Plans Another Ukraine Meeting
France will hold another meeting on February 19 to discuss Ukraine and European security. This time, more countries will be invited to join the talks.
The first meeting was held on February 17 in Paris. Leaders from big European countries, Britain, NATO, and top EU officials attended. They talked about Ukraine’s safety, its possible membership in NATO, and a broader defense plan for Europe.
Now, France has invited other European countries like Norway, Canada, the Baltic states, Czech Republic, Greece, Finland, Romania, Sweden, and Belgium to join the meeting. Some will attend in person while others will join via video link.
This move comes after recent talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia. These talks were the first direct discussions between Washington and Moscow since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine started.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was supposed to visit Saudi Arabia but postponed it, saying decisions about Ukraine’s future should be made with Kyiv’s involvement.
The role of European countries in the US-Russia talks is unclear. However, a special envoy for Ukraine said earlier that Europe would not directly take part in the talks but its interests would be considered.
Aid Package for Ukraine
A package of military aid to Ukraine is expected soon. It will include artillery shells, air defense systems, and equipment for military brigades. The value of this aid could reach 10 billion euros ($10.8 billion) depending on how much individual EU countries contribute.
EU Must Take Control of Sanctions Policy
The European Union needs to take charge of its sanctions policy against Russia as US priorities change, said the EU’s Economy and Trade Commissioner.
Turkey Highlights Its Mediation Efforts
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlighted Turkey’s efforts in mediating between Ukraine and Russia. He mentioned a previous deal that allowed Ukrainian agricultural exports until Russia withdrew from it in 2023.
Possible Peace Plan Revealed
A possible plan for peace in Ukraine has been reported, including a ceasefire, elections, and a final agreement. This was revealed by Fox News Senior White House Correspondent Jacqui Heinrich on X.
Incidents in Italy and Elsewhere
Two explosions took place on an oil tanker in the Italian city of Savona on February 18. The vessel was allegedly carrying Russian oil to Europe.
A Ukraine official said that only three countries, Ukraine, Russia, and North Korea, are gaining experience in modern warfare.
