Following a tense exchange with US President Donald Trump at the White House last week, the optics of a warm welcome for Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Brussels were unmistakable. Arriving at the European Union summit, Zelenskyy was flanked by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, symbolizing a strong vision of unity. Despite being reprimanded in Washington for perceived ingratitude, Zelenskyy made a concerted effort to express his gratitude to European leaders, asserting, “We are not alone. These are not just words — we feel it.”
During the summit, von der Leyen characterized the situation as a w watershed moment for both Europe and Ukraine. She emphasized the urgent need for Europe to protect itself in the face of clear and present dangers, asserting, “We have to put Ukraine in a position to protect itself and to push for lasting and just peace.” This statement underscores the critical role of European unity in addressing security concerns amid ongoing conflicts.
Despite the outward displays of camaraderie, the discussions took place against a backdrop of alarming developments. Russia's Foreign Ministry dismissed a ceasefire proposal supported by Ukraine, France, and Britain, while the Kremlin accused French President Emmanuel Macron of warmongering. Macron had raised the topic of whether French nuclear weapons could serve as a deterrent for other EU countries, especially as the US, which maintains approximately 100 warheads in Europe, appears to be disengaging.
Adding to the uncertainty, Trump questioned the US commitment to defend NATO allies under attack, a fundamental promise of the Western military alliance. He stated, “If you're not going to pay, we're not going to defend,” targeting alliance members that fail to meet the defense spending benchmark of 2% of their gross domestic product.
In light of the US's apparent shift in stance on Ukraine, European leaders are actively seeking to maintain transatlantic cooperation. Zelenskyy indicated that he may engage in fresh talks with the US next week, suggesting a glimmer of hope for improved relations. Meanwhile, EU nations are contemplating how to sustain their security independently from US support for the first time in decades.
On Thursday, the 27 EU leaders approved a plan that empowers the European Commission to pursue nearly €800 billion ($870 billion) in additional defense investments over the coming years. Earlier in the week, von der Leyen proposed temporarily suspending strict EU fiscal rules to allow member states greater flexibility in defense spending. This includes a new €150 billion loan initiative to support joint procurement and reallocating funds from the EU budget to mobilize private capital.
Most of the funding is expected to come from member states, which will be permitted to incur higher levels of debt specifically for defense without facing penalties. The European Commission is set to draft the legal proposal ahead of another summit later this month.
During a one-and-a-half-hour discussion with EU leaders, Zelenskyy may have left the summit feeling more assured. The EU reiterated its commitment to Ukraine, with a statement that included support for addressing Ukraine’s urgent military needs, such as air defense systems, ammunition, and necessary training. Notably, Hungary was the only EU member to abstain from this unanimous statement, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding its relationship with Russia.
Despite Hungary's reluctance, senior EU diplomats revealed that additional financial support for Ukraine could be forthcoming, supplementing the €30 billion already committed for this year. Costa noted that several member states have pledged up to €15 billion in support.
The EU has long debated the need to enhance its defense expenditures. Many of the 27 EU countries are also NATO members, facing a defense spending target of 2% of GDP. However, several nations continue to fall short of this requirement. In response to the shifting political landscape, many EU states are signaling intentions to significantly increase defense spending.
The most notable shift comes from Germany, where conservative leader Friedrich Merz has expressed a willingness to amend the German constitution to ease debt restrictions for military expenditure. As one senior EU diplomat remarked, “There are no frugals anymore when it comes to defense.”
As the EU leaders solidify their consensus on the need for significant defense investment, questions about the broader implications of these decisions remain. Issues such as the potential seizing of Russian assets to aid Ukraine and Macron’s proposal regarding French nuclear deterrence continue to provoke debate.
While messages from the US may remain mixed, the EU has demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting Ukraine, having provided over €135 billion in assistance since the onset of the conflict in 2022. As Costa asserted, “We have been with Ukraine since day one,” emphasizing the EU's unwavering support amidst ongoing challenges.
