This online EPC Update will discuss the upcoming Special European Council meeting on March 6, where EU leaders will address the future of European defence and security guarantees for Ukraine. With the Trump administration aligning with Russia at the United Nations, orchestrating a breakdown in relations with Ukraine at the White House, and discontinuing military aid, doubts over Western support have deepened. As the enemies within try to paralyse the EU’s response, a fast and decisive European renewal of support, through the Council and budding coalitions of the willing, will be critical.
Following decade-long debates, will Europeans finally be willing and able to assume greater responsibility by becoming a more resilient, efficient and autonomous defence actor? What kind of defence capabilities are needed? Will member states be ready to prioritise their development collaboratively? Will they agree to increase spending jointly on this and if so, how (within or outside the EU budget)? How can the partnerships with non-EU European partners, such as the UK, be deepened? Finally, how will Trump’s retreat from European security affect the relationship between the EU and NATO?
Participation is open to EPC members only, the media and EU officials.