Following emergency meeting of European leaders to discuss the war in Ukraine, President of France emphasized the implementation of an own agenda of ‘sovereignty, security and competitiveness’ by the continent
In a scenario of growing concern for security on the European continent, leaders of various nations met in This Tuesday (18) to discuss strategies to increase military investment. The meeting, considered emergency, was attended by prominent figures, including the French president . Macron emphasized the urgent need to strengthen Europe’s defense capabilities, an initiative that emerges in response to signs that the United States may be planning to gradually reduce its commitment to the . This possibility has generated apprehension among European countries, which seek to ensure their safety more autonomously.
During the meeting, British Prime Minister Kir Starmer and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, under pressure from Polish leaders, pledged to increase defense investment in the coming years. The proposal discussed includes the expansion of the percentage of GDP for the military sector, with the objective of modernizing Arsenal and reinforcing the military staff, which currently has 1.5 million people. Although they have a modern arsenal and two nuclear powers, European leaders recognize the need to update their armed forces to face future challenges.
In addition to defense issues, President Macron highlighted the importance of representing European interests in international negotiations. He contacted former United States President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to make himself available in the ongoing discussions between US and Russian leaders in Saudi Arabia. The three -year war in Ukraine remains a central issue, demanding deliberations within the NATO and internal votes in each nation to relocate funds for the defense. The situation in Ukraine and the possible changes in the commitment of With NATO promise to generate many headlines in the coming months. European leaders are aware that decisions made now will have a lasting impact on the safety of the continent.
*With information from Luca Bassani
*Report produced with the aid of AI
