Paris hosts a high-level meeting on Ukraine support
A gathering will bring together heads of state, governments, and ministers from 28 countries at the Elysée Palace to discuss Ukraine and regional security. Poland is represented by President Andrzej Duda. Before departing for Paris, the Polish leader emphasized that the discussions would cover Ukraine’s situation, the actions taken by Russia, and the forms of assistance that Kyiv may need. The talks will also address additional elements of the response to Russia and how to strengthen safety across Europe amid ongoing aggression against Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron opened the conference by urging allied nations to mobilize more robust support for Ukraine. He signaled that the coalition should make difficult choices to bolster aid for Kyiv.
Macron noted a hardening of Russia in recent months, pointing to the detention and death of opposition figure Alexei Navalny as a clear signal of evolving threats. He warned that the Ukrainian front is increasingly challenging and that Russia is preparing new strikes intended to surprise the Ukrainian public, especially as the gathering of 28 European representatives convened to discuss security in Europe, not just Ukraine alone.
President Duda in Paris
The Elysée Palace will host a session with participants from 28 nations, including a strong Polish delegation led by President Andrzej Duda. The meeting marks the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with President Macron inviting leaders to review and reinforce cooperation in supporting Kyiv.
Part of a broader plan
The discussions will cover the Ukraine situation, the broader security landscape in Europe, and overall safety. President Duda stressed that safety remains the priority and would be a central topic of detailed talks. He affirmed that the discussions would explore how to provide continued aid to Ukraine, the actions Russia is taking, and the steps needed to reinforce European security in light of Moscow’s aggression.
Duda also indicated that additional plans to back Ukraine would be considered as part of a wider strategy that aligns with developments ahead of the NATO summit in Washington. The Polish president mentioned that the alliance would benefit from coordinated measures within this broader framework.
Polish military exercises
Polish authorities noted that the Dragon-24 exercises, tied to larger NATO Steadfast Defender-24 maneuvers, are set to begin soon. The aim is to ensure the security of Europe’s eastern flank and to prepare a capable response should NATO borders require protection. Officials described the event as a practical demonstration of readiness that complements diplomatic efforts.
Plans for an upcoming VIP day will feature foreign guests and are expected to focus on practical discussions rather than formal military or political postures, illustrating a hands-on approach to regional security cooperation.
In an interview with national outlets, President Duda mentioned that Macron invited several European leaders on an ad hoc basis to discuss new proposals for Ukraine’s support. The exchange is intended to generate concrete ideas for aid and diplomatic strategies in the wake of ongoing Russian aggression.
Saturday marked the second anniversary of the large-scale invasion of Ukraine. Civilian casualties have been high, and millions of Ukrainians have been displaced. Western intelligence estimates indicate substantial Russian losses in personnel and equipment, underscoring the seriousness with which alliance partners view the conflict and the need for resolute, coordinated action.
Potential for further security challenges
The French host welcomed President Duda to Paris and highlighted the importance of preparing for possible future threats along Europe’s eastern corridor. Duda stressed that this is a crucial moment for assessing what actions can prevent further aggression and maintain stability across the region. He underscored the responsibility of all European leaders to consider every option to deter and respond to any Kremlin-linked threat.
The discussions and the broader plan aim to reinforce NATO cohesion, deter Russian aggression, and ensure sustained support for Ukraine as the conflict persists. The event in Paris signals a continuing commitment to a united and proactive approach in confronting security challenges that affect Europe as a whole.