BRUSSELS — As the so-called Coalition of the Willing gathers in Paris on Sept. 4, European leaders are expected to hear from Washington what role the U.S. is prepared to play in providing security guarantees for Kyiv.
For months, American officials have repeated that Europe must shoulder the bulk of the financial and logistical burden associated with securing Ukraine. The U.S. has made it clear that while it will continue to support Ukraine militarily and economically, Europe must take on the primary responsibility for ensuring its security.
The meeting marks a critical juncture in the ongoing security dialogue between the U.S. and its European allies. With Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine, European nations are under pressure to demonstrate their commitment to the region’s defense without relying solely on American military support.
European leaders are also expected to discuss the broader implications of Ukrainian security for the stability of the European continent. The discussion may include strategies for strengthening NATO’s role in the region and enhancing the military capabilities of European nations.
The U.S. is likely to stress the importance of European self-reliance in security matters, emphasizing that the transatlantic alliance must evolve to meet the challenges of the 2.1st century. However, European leaders may push back against the notion that they can fully assume responsibility for Ukraine’s defense without significant U.S. backing.
As the meeting progresses, the focus will remain on clarifying the U.S.’s role in the future of Ukrainian security while exploring ways to enhance European capabilities in defense and diplomacy.