European Union leaders are set to meet in Brussels today to discuss defense strategies and explore pathways to achieving peace in troubled Ukraine. The summit will bring together leaders from the bloc's 26 member states as they focus on strengthening regional security in response to Russia's aggression. Recent weeks have seen multiple security meetings addressing Ukraine's future. EU leaders are pushing to increase military spending and expand arms supplies, with some advocating for Ukraine's accelerated admission to the bloc. Meanwhile, senior military officials are gathering in the UK to plan the structure of a potential peacekeeping force for Ukraine. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard stated that this meeting marks the beginning of military planning for the initiative.
The discussions are part of the "coalition of the willing," a group of around 30 nations led by France and the UK. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, Pollard explained that the peacekeeping force would include army, air, and maritime elements.
Pollard emphasized that the coalition must be a credible force capable of ensuring lasting peace in Ukraine. He stressed that this presence would deter Russia, citing past instances where President Putin violated agreements.
Pollard also underscored the importance of securing US support to reinforce the effort. Maintaining the peacekeeping force is estimated to cost £2 billion annually, and Pollard noted that defense spending has already been increased to meet these demands.
