European Leaders Gather in Paris to Address Ukraine Crisis Amid U.S. Uncertainty

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European leaders convened in Paris on Monday for an emergency summit aimed at forging a united stance on Ukraine's future, following their exclusion from U.S.-Russia talks. The meeting under French President Emmanuel Macron's leadership comes as U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at possible upcoming discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, leaving Europe seeking a greater role in security and defense matters.

Amid the backdrop of mixed signals from the Trump administration regarding its Ukraine strategy, European leaders are under pressure to enhance military spending and consider troop deployments to Ukraine post-ceasefire. Although no binding agreements are expected, countries including the UK, Germany, and Italy aim to coordinate defense strategies and discuss troop presence to reassure Ukraine and signal commitment to U.S. partnership.

The summit also highlights historical tensions, with nations like Poland preparing to boost defense spending to 4.47% of GDP by 2025, while leaders voice concerns over domestic support for military involvement. As uncertainties linger about the specifics of any troop deployment, European leaders recognize the pressing need to articulate a cohesive strategy in light of potential shifts in U.S. foreign policy.

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