EU leaders meet in emergency summit to strengthen defence as US shifts priorities

On March 6, European leaders are gathering in Brussels for a crucial summit to address both the security of the continent and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. 

The meeting comes at a pivotal time when Europe is grappling with a shift in global dynamics, notably influenced by President Trump's aggressive stance on Ukraine and NATO, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The summit, which will include heads of state from the European Union's 27 member countries, is set to focus on two key issues: enhancing Europe's defence capabilities and formulating a sustainable strategy for Ukraine's future. The leaders are expected to discuss a significant ramp-up in European military spending, aimed at bolstering their ability to confront Russia without relying as heavily on U.S. support.

As part of the discussions, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, will present a proposal for a 150 billion euro loan program to boost defense investment. This initiative is designed to make EU budget rules more flexible, allowing member states to invest in security without breaching deficit restrictions. The proposal is seen as part of a broader strategy to boost overall defense spending by as much as 800 billion euros.

Additionally, the European leaders will likely explore a potential peace plan for Ukraine, alongside how the EU can play a central role in supporting any future peace efforts. French President Emmanuel Macron has suggested that the EU could consider using France’s nuclear deterrent to safeguard the continent, in light of growing threats from Russia.

In the wake of President Trump’s recent demands for Ukraine to negotiate a peace deal, European leaders are under pressure to act swiftly and cohesively, while managing their often fraught relations with the United States. The summit’s agenda will also include a discussion on the involvement of non-EU countries, such as the UK, Norway, and Türkiye, in securing Europe's future and providing further assistance to Ukraine.

Despite ongoing disagreements, particularly from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who aligns with Trump’s position, the EU is determined to present a united front. The meeting is seen as a critical opportunity for European nations to recalibrate their defence and foreign policy strategies in response to an increasingly unpredictable global environment.

As Europe prepares for what may be a transformative moment in its history, the leaders are also acutely aware that their decisions will define not only the future of Ukraine but also Europe's position in an increasingly divided world.

By Aghakazim Guliyev