EU leaders meet in Brussels to discuss Ukraine and defense
The latest developments regarding Ukraine are set to influence the European agenda as leaders gather in Brussels for an extraordinary summit.
The European Union is recognizing the necessity to strengthen its defense industries, with new measures likely to be announced after today’s meeting to enhance the EU's ability to address asymmetric and direct military threats.
The EU must become more sovereign, capable, and better prepared to face both immediate and future security challenges, stated European Council President António Costa in his invitation letter to European leaders. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also invited to the summit. Participants will discuss how the European Union can continue to support Ukraine and which principles should be respected going forward.
In an interview with Radio Moldova, Black Sea region expert Mihai Isac emphasized that the EU is already aware of the need to bolster its defense industries. Following today’s meeting, new measures are expected to be announced to enhance the EU’s capacity to respond to security threats.
“The meeting is certainly taking place in an extremely turbulent geopolitical context, but the fact that leaders from so many European countries are meeting to discuss the issue is further proof of the EU’s capacity to adapt. Regardless of Hungary's or Slovakia's positions, or the stances of leaders from major European countries, the signal is clear: the European Union does not wish to abandon Ukraine, and will find new ways to translate its political and economic capabilities into security terms,” said Mihai Isac.
If the armament plan is approved, Moldova has the opportunity to engage and collaborate with European states to strengthen its own defense capacities without violating national laws or the neutrality principle, Isac also pointed out.
“The recent visit of Mr. Costa to Chișinău is a clear signal that Moldova is not being abandoned. Any cooperation between Brussels and Chișinău in the area of national security will respect both EU law and Moldova’s national neutrality legislation. Moldova is expected to benefit from several projects with EU member states in the coming months. Following discussions between Chișinău and Brussels, Moldova is likely to make a series of requests to address security needs within its National Army and other structures,” added Isac.
The European Union leaders are convening today for an extraordinary summit to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine and European security. This meeting follows the announcement by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen of a five-point plan aimed at raising €800 billion for EU armament, in response to the growing distance between the United States and the Old Continent.
The EU must become more sovereign, capable, and better prepared to face both immediate and future security challenges, reiterated European Council President António Costa in his invitation letter to European leaders. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also attending the summit. The participants will also discuss how the European Union can continue to support Ukraine and the principles that should guide future actions.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
