French President Emmanuel Macron revealed on November 14 that 42 countries have endorsed a declaration on European security principles, an initiative led by France. The declaration was adopted on November 12 during the ninth summit of the European Political Community in Dublin. This development comes as discussions between Ukraine and Russia have resumed after an eight-month hiatus, with recent talks taking place in Abu Dhabi under US mediation.
The talks between Kiev and Moscow, which involved US emissaries Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, indicate that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not willing to negotiate, according to Macron. Despite this, Macron emphasized two key priorities for Europe: helping Ukraine survive the winter and securing a just and lasting peace. He stressed that Moscow aims to plunge Ukraine into darkness and that Europe's responsibility is to thwart this plan by providing financial support and protecting electrical infrastructure.
Macron criticized those who want to restrict aid to Kiev, labeling it as the "spirit of defeat" that would only lead to more conflict. He advocated for continued support to Ukraine's military and the preparation of a multinational force that could be deployed after a ceasefire. An exercise is currently underway in Poland, demonstrating Europe's readiness to contribute to this effort. Macron also emphasized the need for Europe to define its long-term security expectations from Washington.
The French president highlighted Ukraine's crucial role in European security, describing it as having the "first conventional army in Europe." He argued that Ukraine should play a key role within NATO. Macron's comments come ahead of a meeting of leaders in Berlin on Thursday, where they will continue to work on these issues. The declaration endorsed by 42 countries aims to support Ukraine's military and prepare for a potential multinational force.
The resumed talks between Ukraine and Russia, facilitated by the US, included trilateral discussions. While these talks mark a positive step, Macron's comments suggest that a significant gap remains between the two parties. Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine, both financially and militarily, is seen as crucial in countering Russian aggression. Macron's leadership in pushing for a unified European stance on security is evident in the endorsement of the declaration by 42 countries.
The declaration's adoption reflects a broad consensus among European countries on the need for collective action to address security challenges. By supporting Ukraine's military and preparing for a potential multinational force, Europe aims to deter further aggression and promote a just and lasting peace. Macron's emphasis on Ukraine's role in European security underscores the country's significance in the region.
As leaders gather in Berlin to discuss the next steps, the focus will be on solidifying Europe's commitment to Ukraine's security and defining its expectations from the US. The endorsement of the European security declaration marks a significant step towards a more unified and proactive European approach to security challenges.
Key points
- 42 countries have endorsed a declaration on European security principles led by France.
- The declaration aims to support Ukraine's military and prepare a multinational force.
- Macron emphasizes Ukraine's crucial role in European security and its potential membership in NATO.
