For almost three years now, Ukraine has been suffering due to Russia’s devastating war of aggression – a war which has shaken Europe’s security architecture to its core. Our course of action is clear: we will continue to intensively support Ukrainians so that they can regain their freedom and sovereignty. For the war against Ukraine is also an existential threat to European security. The expansion of Europe’s security and defence capabilities is therefore also a top priority.

After talks in Warsaw and Berlin at the end of last year, the Foreign Ministers of Germany, France, Poland, Italy, Spain, the UK and Ukraine, together with High Representative Kaja Kallas, are therefore meeting to discuss concrete steps for more security and defence in Europe, as well as continued support for Ukraine.

One key issue discussed during the talks will be security cooperation with the new US Administration. In future, Europe must shoulder even more responsibility for its own security – both in financial and military terms. That is why we intend to expand our investment in armaments and defence. The EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, will therefore take part in the talks in Paris.

In light of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, it is crucial that Europe and Ukraine work together even more closely. This is not just about Ukraine’s defence but also long-term stability in Europe. The Foreign Ministers are discussing concrete measures today which will place Ukraine in a strong position in future negotiations. At the same time, we are sending a clear message to Russia: a peace agreement must not jeopardise either Ukraine’s sovereignty or Europe’s security. For us there can be no ifs and buts: there can be no peace in Europe without consulting Ukrainians and Europeans.

Syria conference: Hope for a new future

Syria, too, finds itself at a decisive turning point. The toppling of the Assad regime on 8 December 2024 brought fresh hope of durable stability in Syria. However, the challenges remain huge and, in particular, the security situation remains fragile. Everything must now be done to support this journey towards a peaceful, inclusive future. In Paris this Thursday, Foreign Minister Baerbock is therefore taking part in the third conference on Syria since the fall of the Assad regime.

The conference in Paris will build on the format of the meetings in Aqaba and Riyadh and will bring together key international partners of the Syrian people, neighbouring countries, as well as representatives of the Syrian transitional government. The aim is to foster a peaceful and inclusive transition process which will bring long-term stability to Syria and give people a chance to build a safe future. As well as the political resolution to the conflict and the country’s reconstruction, the focus will be on the difficult issues of transitional justice and the fight against impunity. A successful process requires close coordination between the transitional government, regional partners and the international community.

Preparing for the Munich Security Conference

The trip to Paris also serves as preparation for the Munich Security Conference, which begins on Friday. The most pressing security issues will be on the agenda in Munich – from Ukraine to transatlantic cooperation and strengthening NATO. As Europeans, we want to send a clear message: we can only safeguard peace and stability in Europe through joint strength. The coming days will show how Europe, the United States and their partners can join forces to master the global challenges and set the course for a secure future.