Europe is at a historical crossroads in the conflict in Ukraine. The summit hosted by 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's time to act," declared 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 "steering committee" open to the participation of other countries. At the Lancaster House summit, titled "Securing Our Future", leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, and other European countries participated, along with the European Commission and NATO.

The four pillars of the Plan
- Military support and sanctions on Russia - Military aid to Ukraine will continue, accompanied by strengthened economic sanctions.
- Protection of Ukrainian sovereignty - Kiev will be involved in every negotiation.
- Strengthening Ukrainian defense - The goal is to prevent new invasions.
- Creation of a European military coalition - A contingent will be sent to ensure peace.
Security guarantees and European rearmament
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized the need to strengthen Ukraine economically, energetically, and militarily. She spoke of the importance of transforming it into a "steel hedgehog" to deter future invasions and announced a defense plan to be presented at the extraordinary EU summit on March 6.

A more autonomous Europe in defense
Europe must take on the greater burden of the initiative, with American support. Poland and the Nordic countries of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) could play a key role, as could Italy, committed to maintaining dialogue with the United States.
Before the summit, Starmer met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who highlighted the importance of avoiding splits in the West and proposed a meeting between European and American leaders. In parallel, Starmer held talks with Baltic leaders, who reiterated the need for active involvement of NATO and the EU.
A strong and united response
Starmer confirmed that the West will continue to support Ukraine with military aid to ensure lasting peace. He also stated that the United Kingdom 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.
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