European Leaders Unite to Strengthen Defense and Support Ukraine Amid Shifting US Policy

In a powerful display of solidarity, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted a high-profile summit in central London, bringing together leaders from across Europe to bolster defense efforts and secure peace in Ukraine. The gathering, held at Lancaster House under the banner “Securing Our Future,” underscored Europe’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability, even as questions loom over the United States’ evolving role in the conflict.

A Show of Unity for Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a warm welcome in London, just days after a tense meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington. Leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and other European nations, along with representatives from Canada and Turkey, embraced Zelenskyy and pledged unwavering support. The summit also included key figures such as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.

Steinmeier criticizes Trump for heated exchange with Zelenskyy.

Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the importance of sustained military aid to Ukraine, stating that Western allies must ensure a lasting peace that guarantees Ukraine’s liberty and sovereignty. He also signaled the UK’s readiness to deploy troops and aircraft if necessary, urging other nations to join a “coalition of the willing” to defend Ukraine.

The US Factor: A Critical Variable
While European leaders rallied behind Ukraine, Starmer acknowledged that the success of their efforts hinges on strong US support. This comes amid growing concerns over a potential shift in US foreign policy following Trump’s contentious meeting with Zelenskyy. During their Oval Office discussion, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Ukraine for what they perceived as insufficient gratitude toward the US, refusing to sign a deal on Ukraine’s mineral resources—a move that left many political observers stunned.

The rift between the US and its European allies has raised questions about the future of transatlantic cooperation. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who enjoys a close relationship with Trump, emphasized the need to “build bridges” between Europe and the US. “If we divide, we will all be weaker,” she warned, proposing a meeting between US and European leaders to address the growing divide.

Europe Steps Up Defense Efforts
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined a bold vision for Europe’s role in the conflict, stressing the need to strengthen Ukraine’s economic, energy, and military resilience. She described the goal of transforming Ukraine into a “steel porcupine”—a nation so fortified that it becomes “indigestible for potential invaders” like Russia.

Von der Leyen also called for a significant increase in defense spending across the European Union, urging member states to “prepare for the worst.” She plans to present a comprehensive defense strategy at an emergency EU summit in Brussels on March 6.

Baltic Leaders Advocate for Transatlantic Unity
In a series of bilateral discussions, Starmer also engaged with leaders from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong transatlantic bond. Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa highlighted the “crucial” role of the Baltic states in the diplomatic process and expressed confidence in NATO’s collective defense commitments, including from the US.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda urged the US and Ukraine to return to negotiations alongside European partners, endorsing the idea of a European peacekeeping force as a potential security guarantee for Ukraine. “We should not spare our effort to maintain a strong transatlantic bond,” he said.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As Europe takes on a greater leadership role in supporting Ukraine, the summit underscored both the challenges and opportunities ahead. While European leaders are prepared to “do the heavy lifting,” the absence of robust US backing could complicate efforts to achieve lasting peace.

For now, the message from London is clear: Europe stands united with Ukraine, but the path to stability will require renewed collaboration across the Atlantic.