EU leaders clash over Ukraine strategy and weapons delivery

European Union leaders are facing challenges over weapons deliveries to Ukraine and representation in U.S.-led diplomatic talks. At a recent summit in Brussels, discussions focused on the EU's role as President Donald Trump initiates talks with Russia's Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing war. Leaders expressed concern about being left out of discussions. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasized the need for a representative to advocate for European citizens. This led to tensions with the EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, when Sanchez pressed for a special envoy. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy joined the summit virtually. He urgently requested funding for ammunition amid ongoing conflict. He stressed the importance of escalating support, especially for air defense and military aid. In upcoming meetings, EU leaders plan to coordinate their stance on peace talks, with participation from both EU and non-EU countries, including the UK and Canada. Kallas previously proposed a €40 billion military aid package for 2025, building on €20 billion supplied in 2024. However, some nations, including France and Italy, have hesitated to commit specific amounts. The discussion has been complicated as Trump seeks a ceasefire, which Putin links to halting arms deliveries to Ukraine. Some leaders criticized the approach of quantifying contributions too early in the process. The EU and its members have already provided €50 billion in military aid to Ukraine since the war began in 2022, while the U.S. has contributed $66.5 billion. Hungary continues to resist assistance to Ukraine, leading to a lack of consensus among member states.