Ukraine’s international allies gathered in Paris on Monday to expand military support for Kyiv, particularly in air defence, while seeking to increase pressure on Russia to end the war, which has entered its fifth year.
Representatives from 37 countries, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, attended the summit of the “Coalition of the Willing” at Les Invalides in the French capital. The coalition was established by France and the United Kingdom to coordinate military assistance for Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening Ukraine’s air and missile defence capabilities, which have been heavily strained by repeated Russian ballistic missile attacks in recent weeks.
Military sources said the coalition could also announce the first joint exercises of the Multinational Force for Ukraine, aimed at demonstrating readiness to deploy after the conflict ends.
Sweden’s top military commander Michael Claesson said the summit was intended to ensure continued commitment from participating nations.
“The meeting is ‘to make sure that the commitment is still there from all nations’,” Claesson told journalists.
Before the summit, nine European countries and Ukraine announced the creation of a coalition aimed at developing “purely defensive” anti-ballistic missile capabilities for Europe, citing growing concerns over missile threats.
“We do this not against any people, but in defence of our own,” said a joint declaration signed by Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.
Macron vows to defend freedom
French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe was prepared to defend freedom and the rule of law, even at significant cost, during a speech to France’s armed forces ahead of the summit.
“The message we send to the world is this: Yes, peace is our goal. Yes, we cherish freedom and the rule of law. And yes, we stand ready to fight to defend them. Always, and at the cost of blood if necessary,” Macron said.
Macron later wrote on X that allies were increasing support for Ukraine, strengthening its defences, increasing pressure on Russia and working on future security guarantees.
The discussions were held ahead of France’s Bastille Day celebrations, which include a military parade highlighting support for Ukraine this year.
In his traditional address to the armed forces, Macron said Europe was becoming a stronger power capable of defending itself and called for expanded cooperation among European defence industries.
His remarks came despite France and Germany recently abandoning a joint fighter jet programme.
Moscow rejects summit
Russia criticised the Paris meeting, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accusing participants of opposing peace efforts.
“This is a coalition of warmongers,” Peskov said.
The Elysee Palace described the summit as taking place during a period of renewed transatlantic cooperation and unity, while also noting more favourable developments for Kyiv on the battlefield.
US President Donald Trump, who has attempted to maintain communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin while criticising both Moscow and Kyiv at different times, indicated at the June G7 summit in France and the upcoming NATO meeting in Turkey that he intended to provide greater support for Ukraine.
