An informal summit is taking place in Copenhagen, where leaders of European countries have gathered to discuss pressing issues of security, defense, and continued support for Ukraine. This was announced by the President of the European Council, António Costa, ahead of the meeting, which is taking place on October 1.
This is reported by Kyiv24
The European Union is Forming a New Roadmap for Defense
António Costa reminded that back in February, EU leaders held a “brainstorming day” dedicated to defense policy issues. Since then, the European Commission has prepared a White Paper on strengthening the defense sector, launched the SAFE program, and developed tools that provide member states with flexibility and fiscal capacity to increase defense spending.
According to Costa, nine main priorities have now been identified, and leaders are moving on to specific discussions of key projects that are to become flagship initiatives in strengthening the EU’s defense capabilities. He emphasized that these projects will help mobilize the necessary resources to enhance collective defense capabilities.
“We have identified nine main priorities, and now we are moving on to discussing specific projects – the most important flagship projects around which we must mobilize our energy and increase our own defense potential,” he stated.
During the summit, participants plan to hold a political discussion regarding the future roadmap for defense policy. Based on this roadmap, the European Commission will receive clear guidelines and timelines for implementing new opportunities in the field of defense.
Support for Ukraine and New Financial Instruments
Particular attention at the meeting is being paid to issues of support for Ukraine. António Costa emphasized that the security of Europe begins with Ukraine, which is why participants are discussing in detail ways to strengthen assistance to the Ukrainian people in their pursuit of a just and sustainable peace, as well as ensuring collective security.
The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, confirmed that an important topic will be defense and support for Ukraine, particularly through a reparative loan that will be secured by the assets of the Russian Federation. According to her, these financial resources are intended to help Ukraine defend itself against aggression.
Earlier, in September, António Costa initiated this informal meeting of EU leaders, emphasizing the need to activate investments in the defense sector. He called for the use of joint tools, including the SAFE program, and to take into account the experience gained during the war in Ukraine.