Brussels, Aug 29 (AP) European defense ministers are convening in Copenhagen to deliberate on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The meeting follows a Russian airstrike on Kyiv that resulted in the deaths of 23 people and caused severe damage to a European diplomatic site.
The attack has sparked outrage among Europe's military leaders, who have called for stronger actions against Russia, including the seizure of frozen assets, additional sanctions, and ramped-up support for Ukraine's military as well as its aspirations for EU membership.
Discussions will also cover the potential deployment of European troops in Ukraine to ensure security and oversee a peace process that remains elusive amid stagnant U.S. efforts to mediate between Ukraine and Russia.
“Everyone recognizes that, given how Russian President Vladimir Putin is undermining peace efforts, pressure is the only effective measure,” stated Kaja Kallas, the European Union's foreign policy chief.
Two missiles struck near an EU diplomatic mission in Kyiv, shattering windows and doors but causing no injuries.
The EU has summoned the Russian envoy in Brussels regarding this assault.
The UN Security Council has scheduled an emergency session on Friday afternoon at the request of Ukraine and its European allies—Britain, France, Slovenia, Denmark, and Greece—to discuss the airstrikes.
Top Ukrainian envoys are also set to meet with the Trump administration for mediation talks.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after the incident.
She stated, “Trump was not pleased with this news, but it was not unexpected.”
Leavitt noted Ukraine has recently targeted Russia's oil industry effectively.
“Perhaps neither side is ready to conclude the war,” said Leavitt. “The president desires an end, but the leaders of these two nations must be willing as well.”
In Copenhagen, Kallas mentioned that defense ministers from the 27-nation bloc are evaluating options like heightened sanctions on Russia, increased defense supplies to Ukraine, and laying the groundwork for EU training missions post-ceasefire.
“We are considering how to adapt mission mandates in preparation for a potential peace agreement,” said Kallas, advocating for stricter sanctions on Russia’s economic resources.
On Thursday, the United States approved an arms sale worth $825 million to supply Ukraine with extended-range missiles and related equipment.
Lithuania’s Defense Minister Dovile Šakaliene asserted that hopes for peace are “naive,” as Putin is “merely stalling to inflict further harm while pretending to consider ending his aggressive actions.”
She argued for more decisive actions against Russia, such as seizing over $200 billion in frozen assets to fund Ukraine's defense effort and purchase American weaponry.
Simon Harris, Ireland’s defense minister, emphasized the need for increased pressure on Russia to cease its “brutal” war on Ukraine, which has devastated civilian communities.
Ursula Von der Leyen, European Commission President, will embark on a tour of EU countries bordering Russia or Belarus, beginning in Latvia, with stops at arms factories and border facilities.
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