Denmark: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with nearly 50 European leaders in Copenhagen today, making an urgent appeal for increased support in Ukraine’s fight against Russia as American financial backing continues to wane.
The high-stakes gathering of the European Political Community came just one day after EU leaders floated a bold proposal to fund a €140 billion ($164 billion) loan to Kyiv by leveraging frozen Russian assets. Zelenskyy urged swift action, stressing that Ukraine remains Europe's frontline against Russian aggression.
Belgium’s Prime Minister Bart De Wever pushed for legal guarantees on asset use, warning that improper seizure could trigger legal complications. “We need certainty and shared responsibility,” he told leaders, signaling divisions within the bloc over the risky financial maneuver.
The summit takes place under tight security following a spate of drone incidents at Danish airports and military facilities earlier this week. While no perpetrators have been identified, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the attacks as part of a "hybrid war" orchestrated by Russia. She underscored the urgency of strengthening Europe’s defenses, declaring, “Ukraine is Europe’s first line of defense.”
Frederiksen called for Europe to become fully self-reliant militarily by 2030, echoing fears from Western intelligence that Russia could launch new offensives across Europe within five years.
With the U.S. shifting focus toward Asia, Zelenskyy’s visit marks a critical pivot toward deepening European solidarity. The outcome of the summit could shape the trajectory of the war—and Europe’s own security posture—in the years ahead.
