Weimar Group+ countries make strong statement regarding Ukraine after summit in London
David Lammy and Jean-Noël Barrot, Foreign Ministers of the UK and France (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Following a meeting in the UK of foreign ministers from several European countries, the UK government issued a joint statement regarding Ukraine and Euro-Atlantic security, according to the UK government.
The summit took place yesterday, May 12, in London, with the foreign ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the UK, and the EU High Representative in attendance.
The Weimar+ group was established this winter in response to changes in Washington's policy regarding Russia's war against Ukraine.
What was discussed in London
During the meeting in the British capital on Monday, the parties discussed Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, as well as issues of Euro-Atlantic security.
At Downing Street, following the summit, a joint statement by the European ministers was presented. It includes efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine, pressure on Russia to end its aggressive war, security guarantees, and continued support for Kyiv.
On solidarity with Ukraine
The published summary states that the countries of the Weimar+ group reaffirmed their solidarity with the Ukrainian people, as well as our sympathy for the victims of recent Russian attacks and our full support for the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.
On peace efforts and expectations for Russia's agreement to a ceasefire
European ministers welcomed the peace efforts led by the US and the prospect of further negotiations this week.
"Russia has not shown any serious intent to make progress. It must do so without delay," the joint statement emphasizes.
The foreign ministers of European countries also joined Ukraine's call for an immediate and comprehensive 30-day ceasefire to create space for negotiations on a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace.
"Any peace will only last if it is based on international law including the UN Charter and Ukraine is able to deter and defend against any future Russian attack," the ministers stated.
Statement on support for Ukraine
During the meeting in London, they also discussed how Europe would further intensify efforts to support Ukraine in its ongoing defense against Russia's aggressive war.
"Ukraine should be confident in its ability to continue to resist successfully Russian aggression with our support," the statement emphasizes.
According to European officials, a strong Ukrainian army will be vital.
"We agreed to work with Ukraine on initiatives to strengthen Ukraine’s armed forces, restock munitions and equipment, and further enhance industrial capacity," the statement from Downing Street said.
On security guarantees
Representatives of the Weimar+ group of countries stated that they are striving for reliable security guarantees for Ukraine.
"This includes exploring the creation of a coalition of air, land and maritime reassurance forces that could help create confidence in any future peace and support the regeneration of Ukraine’s armed forces," the joint statement reads.
On post-war reconstruction
The parties also shared that they would work on new commitments for reconstruction and recovery, particularly at the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in Rome on July 10-11, to ensure that Ukraine's future security is based on a dynamic economy.
On ambitious sanctions against Russia and frozen assets
"We agreed to pursue ambitious measures to reduce Russia’s ability to wage war by limiting Kremlin revenues, disrupting the shadow fleet, tightening the Oil Price Cap, and reducing our remaining imports of Russian energy" European officials stated.
Additionally, the ministers said they would keep frozen Russian assets in their jurisdictions frozen until Russia ceases its aggression and pays for the damages caused.
On NATO, Euro-Atlantic security, and increased spending
The parties also confirmed that NATO is the foundation of their countries' security and prosperity. They agreed that states must increase their contributions to defense spending and continue to strengthen the alliance to meet the requirements of deterrence and defense across all areas of the Euro-Atlantic region.
"We will use all feasible levers to strengthen our collective defence capability and production and reinforce Europe’s technological and industrial base," the joint statement reads.
To this end, European countries plan to develop work within NATO, the EU, and like-minded groups to achieve these goals.
Summary of the meeting in London
"An enhanced security and defence relationship between the UK and EU is key to improving the lives of our people and making our continent more safe and secure, as will enhanced cooperation between NATO and the EU on the basis of the three Joint Declarations, and greater co-operation with Ukraine," summarized the Weimar+ group.
It was previously reported that on May 12, the foreign ministers of France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Poland, and the EU planned to discuss Ukraine's support and the potential announcement of new sanctions against Russia.
It was also revealed that on May 16, a meeting of the defense ministers of Italy, Germany, France, Poland, and the UK will take place in Rome to discuss the coordination of support for Ukraine.
The upcoming summit in the Italian capital will be the fourth of its kind, following meetings in Berlin in November, Warsaw in January, and Paris in March.
