**European Leaders Unite to Support Ukraine**
On March 11, French President Emmanuel Macron met with military leaders from over 30 countries in Paris. He urged them to create a plan for “credible security guarantees” for Ukraine if there is a ceasefire.
Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the US and will negotiate with Russia. But European leaders are worried that the US might pressure Ukraine into making concessions to Russia.
Macron emphasized that Europe must support Ukraine and itself in this effort. He said that Europe should “throw its full weight behind Ukraine, and itself.” The meeting included representatives from countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, but no US officials were present.
**”Coalition of the Willing” Forms**
France and the UK are taking the lead in forming a coalition to enforce an eventual ceasefire in Ukraine. Military leaders agreed that security guarantees for Ukraine should not be separate from NATO’s capabilities.
French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu said that these guarantees must be “credible and long-term” and paired with support for the Ukrainian army. He added that France will reject any form of demilitarization of Ukraine.
**Europe Strengthens Its Own Defenses**
Concerns over Washington’s shifting stance on Russia and Ukraine have led Europe to strengthen its own defenses. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a plan to mobilize 800 billion euros for European defense and provide immediate military support for Ukraine.
France has pledged to raise its defense spending to around €100 billion annually, doubling the planned amount. Turkey is positioning itself as a key player in regional security, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan backing Ukraine’s calls for an aerial and naval truce.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
