More than 30 military chiefs from the main European allies met in Paris on Tuesday without the presence of United States representatives, in a meeting aimed at discussing how to increase war efforts in Ukraine.
This closed meeting, which included members of NATO, the EU, Japan, and Australia, was a very rare, and possibly unprecedented, gathering that took place without the participation of the United States.
The aim of the talks was to assess options and capabilities to ensure the continuity of fighting in Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, including possible European peacekeepers, and to maintain Kiev's long-term military strength.
A European diplomat involved in the talks noted that the political message was that Europe can act on its own, but also made it clear that there are things that can't be done without deterrence against Russia.
During the meeting, the need to maintain a strong Ukrainian army was discussed and how to secure its security guarantees without yielding to Russia's demands, such as the demilitarization of the country.
The French Defense Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, highlighted the importance of maintaining a robust Ukrainian army as the main security guarantee for the country.
Lecornu also stated that Europe rejects any form of demilitarization of Ukraine, a constant demand from Russia, which according to Kiev would expose the country to new attacks.
In this context, French President Emmanuel Macron urged European military leaders to develop a plan to define credible security guarantees for Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire. Macron noted that Europe must take a more active role, with the desire to supplant the United States as a military power.
The meeting in Paris also included a statement from Macron, who emphasized the need for Europe to "fully support Ukraine" while ensuring that any lasting peace with Russia is only possible if the protection of the Ukrainian army is secured.
