Displaying items by tag: support for Ukraine

On 1 September, In what authorities suspect was Russian interference, Ursula von der Leyen’s plane was subjected to GPS jamming while landing in Bulgaria,. The flight, which landed safely using paper maps, highlighted the persistent threat of disrupting aviation traffic electronically. Russia has long been accused of such tactics, particularly in the Baltic and Scandinavian regions, though the Kremlin has denied involvement. The incident occurred during von der Leyen’s tour of eastern EU states, aimed at reinforcing solidarity with Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. She said that the EU must keep up their sense of urgency, adding: ‘Putin has not changed, and he will not change. He can only be kept in check through strong deterrence.’ The event also served as a reminder of the risks faced by European leaders when showing visible support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom.

Estonia’s president, Alar Karis, has said it is prepared to contribute troops to an international reassurance force that the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ plans to send to Ukraine as a post-ceasefire security guarantee. He said  Estonia is not overly concerned that this would weaken NATO’s eastern flank, though discussions with alliance leaders continue. Lithuania and Latvia are also willing to participate, but Poland has declined, citing the need to protect its own borders. The reassurance force would be deployed only in non-contact areas within Ukraine. NATO secretary-general Mark Rutte noted that while NATO itself will not formally participate, the alliance is quietly discussing how to ensure resources are not overstretched. About 80,000 US troops are currently in Europe, but there could be a reduction in numbers as Washington’s foreign policy pivots towards the Indo-Pacific. The 'Coalition of the Willing' will meet again on 4 September; the security guarantees it will aim to provide for Ukraine following a truce are almost ready, but confirmation of US support is now needed.

Keir Starmer has made a surprise visit to Kyiv to sign a 100-year partnership with Ukraine, affirming Britain’s steadfast support amid ongoing conflict with Russia. He met Volodymyr Zelensky, laid a wreath for fallen soldiers, and visited a burns hospital. The partnership includes bolstering military collaboration on maritime security in the Baltic, Black, and Azov seas. It also reflects growing European concerns about Donald Trump’s upcoming presidency, with fears that his administration may pressure Ukraine into an unjust settlement with Russia. Ukraine depends heavily on US military aid, but Trump has expressed reluctance to continue funding the war. Starmer aims to position Ukraine for strength in negotiations, aligning with Zelensky’s willingness to discuss temporary territorial concessions for peace.