European leaders gathered in Brussels this week to address growing geopolitical challenges, unveiling a robust plan to increase defense spending and reaffirm support for Ukraine. The announcement comes amid concerns over shifting U.S. priorities following recent policy reversals by former President Donald Trump.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk struck a determined tone: “Europe must take up this challenge, this arms race. And it must win it.” He emphasized the EU’s collective strength, stating, “We are simply stronger than Russia in military, financial, and economic terms.”
The European Commission proposed a landmark $160 billion joint borrowing initiative to fund military modernization across member states. Portuguese statesman Antonio Costa, chairing the summit, declared: “We are here to defend Ukraine,” while European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen warmly welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signaling strengthened EU-Kyiv cooperation.
This united front contrasts sharply with recent tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy in Washington, highlighting Europe’s evolving role in global security frameworks.
