© Luc Marteling
With the US recalibrating its approach to Ukraine, EU leaders met in Brussels to advance a major defence strategy aimed at reinforcing European sovereignty.
The leaders of the 27 European Union member states are currently convening in Brussels amid a significant shift in US policy toward Ukraine.
Prime Minister Luc Frieden described the European Commission's €800 billion initiative to strengthen European defence and deterrence as "a step in the right direction."
However, it remains unclear how much Luxembourg will contribute to the plan. According to Frieden, discussions on this matter will continue until the NATO summit scheduled for summer. The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of jointly managed European funds while also highlighting the critical role of the private sector in the effort.
Frieden acknowledged that the financial commitments involved are "considerable" but stressed that the initiative is "not just about money," pointing to the need for improved interoperability among European armed forces.
When questioned about Hungary and Slovakia, two member states with pro-Russian leanings, Frieden noted that while EU unity is essential, if consensus cannot be reached, the remaining 25 nations should proceed independently.
"Family member" Zelensky expresses gratitude
© François Aulner
In a symbolic moment during the summit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky joined European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa in front of the press. Von der Leyen and Costa referred to Zelensky as a "family member" of Europe. Zelensky repeatedly expressed his gratitude, stating that the EU's support sends a powerful message felt by all Ukrainians. He praised the bloc's defence plan, calling it "a very good decision."
