European Leaders Meet in Paris as U.S. Pushes Ahead with Ukraine Plan

European leaders convened in Paris to strategize on security in light of the ongoing Ukraine war, as U.S. officials from the Trump administration prepare for separate peace talks with Russia. The meeting, called by French President Emmanuel Macron, was prompted by concerns over the tone and implications of recent U.S. diplomatic engagements, particularly Vice President JD Vance's remarks in Munich. European leaders expressed alarm at the prospect of U.S. troop withdrawals and the potential for a peace deal negotiated without their involvement. Discussions focused on military spending, security guarantees for Ukraine, and the need for a coordinated European response to Russian aggression. Leaders emphasized the importance of European sovereignty in defense matters, with calls for increased military spending and a unified approach to security. However, there were tensions regarding the exclusion of some frontline states from the talks, raising concerns about unity within the EU. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that any peace negotiations must include Ukrainian representation. The meeting is seen as a precursor to further discussions among European nations about their collective security strategy and military commitments in the face of a perceived shift in U.S. foreign policy priorities.

- European leaders met in Paris to discuss security strategies amid the Ukraine war.

- Concerns were raised about U.S. troop withdrawals and peace talks with Russia excluding European input.

- Leaders emphasized the need for increased military spending and a unified European defense strategy.

- Ukrainian President Zelensky insisted on Ukrainian participation in any peace negotiations.

- Tensions arose over the exclusion of some EU frontline states from the discussions.