The European Political Community (EPC) summit in Yerevan on Monday called for stronger European military capabilities and deeper integration in support of Ukraine, with leaders also discussing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised that Europe must step up its defence capabilities in the face of evolving global challenges.
The summit, co-chaired by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and EU Council President António Costa, brings together over 40 leaders. It marks a pivotal moment for the region amid ongoing security challenges, including Russia’s war in Ukraine and rising tensions in the Middle East.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK would enter talks to join the European Union’s £78 billion loan to Ukraine. This development signals a significant shift toward closer defence cooperation between the UK and the EU as US President Donald Trump pressures NATO allies to take more responsibility.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held meetings with EU leaders on the sidelines of the summit, proposing enhanced cooperation on drone technology and combat expertise with Finland to bolster frontline defences against Russian forces.
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Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for reopening the waterway but clarified that France would not participate in any US-led military operation. Macron stressed the importance of a coordinated approach between the US and Iran as the key to achieving lasting stability in the region.
The summit also highlighted Armenia’s pivot toward Europe, with Prime Minister Pashinyan describing the meeting as a significant step in Armenia’s integration with the West. The country is set to host the first-ever EU-Armenia summit on Tuesday.
