President Zelenskyy in Brussels for emergency summit on Ukraine support, European defence

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Brussels on March 6 to attend an emergency European Union (EU) summit aimed at discussing further support for Ukraine and bolstering Europe's defence capabilities.

The summit takes place amid significant geopolitical shifts, particularly with the recent decision by US President Donald Trump to cut off military aid to Ukraine, while simultaneously renewing ties with Moscow, raising doubts about his commitment to the security of Kyiv and Europe, Caliber.Az reports citing Ukrainian media.

European leaders are expected to discuss the European Commission's "ReArm Europe" plan, which would unlock billions of euros in defence investments. This initiative is seen as vital in strengthening European defence capabilities, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding US support.

The topic of military assistance to Ukraine is also expected to be a key agenda item, though it remains unclear whether the EU will be able to commit to new aid, especially with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who is known for his Moscow-friendly stance, pledging to block military aid to Ukraine.

European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized the interconnectedness of European and Ukrainian defence, stating, "A stronger European defence is a boost for Ukrainian defence, and a stronger capacity of Ukraine's defence is also important (for boosting) our own defence."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also highlighted the significance of the moment, saying, "This is a watershed moment for Europe... Europe faces clear and present danger." She added that EU countries need to be able to protect themselves while working toward a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine. Von der Leyen further outlined the ReArm Europe plan, which would provide up to €800 billion ($860 billion) for defence investments.

In response, President Zelenskyy thanked European leaders for their unwavering support for Ukraine, noting, "You made a strong signal to Ukrainian people, to Ukrainian warriors, civilians, to our families, and it is great that we are not alone. We know it, and we feel it."

By Vafa Guliyeva