EU leaders are discussing a plan to utilize billions of euros in profits from frozen Russian financial assets to purchase weapons for Ukraine, as part of their efforts to support Kyiv in its battle against Moscow's invasion. The 27 leaders of the bloc will also explore how Europe can enhance its self-defense and bolster its arms industry, reflecting concerns that Russia may not stop at Ukraine and that the United States may not be a strong protector for Europe in the future.
European Council President Charles Michel wrote in the summit invitation: "For decades, Europe has not invested enough in its security and defense." He added, "Now that we are facing the biggest security threat since World War II, it is time to take radical and concrete steps to be prepared for defense and to make the European economy ready for war."
During the two-day summit in Brussels, set to begin at 1200 GMT, EU leaders will also address various topics, including the war in Gaza, the potential start of membership talks with Bosnia, and farmers' protests. Ukraine will be a focal point on the agenda, and President Volodymyr Zelensky will join the summit via video link.
