European leaders gathered in Paris on Monday to discuss boosting defense spending amid divisions over deploying peacekeepers to Ukraine. The emergency talks come as the continent grapples with how to ensure Ukraine’s security following unexpected moves by the United States.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the meeting after U.S. President Donald Trump arranged bilateral talks with Russia, excluding European allies and Ukraine from initial negotiations scheduled to begin in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
“We agree with President Trump on a ‘peace through strength’ approach,” a European official, speaking anonymously, said. Leaders at the meeting agreed it would be risky to conclude a ceasefire in Ukraine without a comprehensive peace agreement, and they expressed willingness to provide security guarantees to Ukraine, depending on American support.
Divisions Over Peacekeeping Forces
The idea of deploying European peacekeepers to Ukraine sparked debate among the leaders. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed openness to sending troops but emphasized the need for a U.S. security commitment. “It’s too early to say how many British troops we would be willing to deploy,” he stated.
A potential peacekeeping force raises concerns about escalating tensions with Russia and stretching European military resources, which have been impacted by supplying Ukraine and years of reduced defense spending.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was skeptical, calling talk of a German peacekeeping mission “highly inappropriate” without a peace deal in place. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also questioned the effectiveness of deploying European soldiers to Ukraine.
Calls for Increased Defense Spending
Amid concerns over Europe’s ability to ensure its own security, several leaders advocated for higher defense spending. Both Chancellor Scholz and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk suggested loosening stringent European Union fiscal rules to allow for increased military budgets without violating deficit limits.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen supported the idea of boosting defense capabilities. “Europe must ramp up support for Ukraine while strengthening our own defense,” she said.
Spain’s Second Deputy Prime Minister Yolanda Diaz echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for Europe to take responsibility for its defense.
Uncertain Path Ahead
President Trump’s decision to engage directly with Russia has left European nations reassessing their role in the peace process. With the U.S. appearing to sideline its traditional allies, Europe faces the challenge of uniting on a strategy to support Ukraine and ensure stability in the region.
As the conflict continues, the discussions in Paris highlight the complexities of international diplomacy and the difficulties in finding a unified approach to peace.
