Leaders of Europe’s key military powers are scheduled to convene in Berlin on Thursday for talks focused on the Ukraine conflict and preparations for the upcoming NATO summit. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will host the meeting, which will include the heads of government from France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Poland. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte is also expected to participate via video link.
A German government spokesperson confirmed that the resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, announced Wednesday, will not affect the planned discussions. Starmer is anticipated to remain in office for several months while his party selects a successor.
The meeting will prioritize coordination ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, set for July 7-8, with a significant focus on the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and developments in the Middle East. The so-called E5 group, comprising the five participating European powers, was established in 2024 amid rising calls for enhanced European defense capabilities and increased support for Ukraine.
At last week’s G7 summit, which featured an address from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, participating leaders pledged to augment the provision of air defense systems to Ukraine and to intensify sanctions against Russia. In addition, the group agreed to authorize licenses for Ukrainian companies to manufacture long-range missiles and air defense equipment, according to diplomatic sources.
Despite these measures, Zelensky has urged European nations to escalate their support as efforts to negotiate an end to hostilities appear to have stalled, particularly from the United States.
Meanwhile, the European Union has initiated limited diplomatic outreach to Moscow. An EU official disclosed that the office of EU Chief Antonio Costa engaged in brief diplomatic contacts intended to establish communication channels. However, the initiative has met resistance within the EU, with several member states expressing caution or opposition to dialogue with the Kremlin.
The Berlin meeting underscores European leaders’ intent to consolidate their position ahead of NATO’s gathering, balancing the need for increased military assistance to Ukraine with broader regional security concerns.