Europe is at an historic crossroads in the conflict in Ukraine. The summit hosted by the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer marked a turning point with a call to action to ensure a just and lasting peace. "This is not the time for more speeches, it is time for action," said Starmer.
A limited truce and a coalition of the willing
French President Emmanuel Macron proposed a one-month truce, limited to aviation, territorial waters and energy infrastructure. London and Paris have established a "control room"open to the participation of other countries. At the Lancaster House summit, entitled "Securing Our Future"leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland and other European countries, as well as the European Commission and NATO participated.
The four pillars of the Plan
- Military Support and Sanctions to Russia - Military aid to Ukraine will continue, accompanied by strengthened economic sanctions.
- Protecting Ukrainian sovereignty - Kiev will be involved in every negotiation.
- Strengthening Ukrainian defence - The aim is to prevent new invasions.
- Creation of a European military coalition - A contingent will be sent to ensure peace.
Security guarantees and European rearmament
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the need to strengthen Ukraine economically, energetically and militarily. She spoke of the importance of turning it into a 'porcupine of steel' to deter future invasions and announced a defence plan to be presented at the extraordinary EU summit on 6 March.
A more autonomous Europe in defence
Europe must assume the greatest weight in the initiative, with American support. Poland and the Nordic countries of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) could play a key role, as could Italy, which is committed to maintaining dialogue with the United States.
Prior to the summit, Starmer met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who emphasised the importance of avoiding splits in the West and proposed a meeting between European and US leaders. In parallel, Starmer held talks with Baltic leaders, who reiterated the need for active NATO and EU involvement.
A strong and united response
Starmer confirmed that the West will continue to support Ukraine with military aid to ensure a lasting peace. He also stated that the UK is ready to 'put boots on the ground and planes in the sky' if necessary, calling for a 'coalition of the willing'. The unity of the West will be crucial for European security.
