Is Europe Ready to Prove Its Worth in Ukraine Without U.S. Support?

Europe’s leaders are in a race against time. They’ve been caught off guard, left out of crucial talks between the U.S. and Russia regarding Ukraine’s future. Now, they’re scrambling to prove their relevance on the world stage. A hastily arranged security summit in Paris is their attempt to show that Europe can step up, make tough decisions, and even consider sending troops to Ukraine—without waiting for Washington’s approval.

But can they truly unite under pressure? Will they agree on increasing military spending, sending troops, and making their voices heard?

Let’s dive into the high-stakes drama unfolding in European politics.

A Power Shift: Europe Realizes It’s on Its Own

For decades, Europe has relied on the U.S. for security. NATO, largely funded and led by Washington, has been the backbone of European defense since World War II. But things are changing.

With Donald Trump back in the White House, his administration has made it clear that Europe needs to do more for its own security. The U.S. is no longer willing to carry the burden alone, and European leaders know they can’t afford to sit back.

This realization has sent shockwaves through Europe’s political elite. Suddenly, discussions that once seemed unthinkable—like deploying European troops to Ukraine—are now on the table.

The Paris Summit: A Desperate Attempt to Stay Relevant

Monday’s security summit in Paris wasn’t just a meeting—it was a wake-up call. The urgency was palpable. European leaders knew they had to prove they were serious about their own defense.

The guest list was exclusive. Only nations with real military power—like the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark—were invited. Even NATO’s Secretary-General and the EU Council President were present, underscoring just how critical the moment was.

One of the key topics? The possibility of deploying European troops to Ukraine after a ceasefire.

The idea isn’t to send peacekeepers but rather a “reassurance force”—troops stationed just behind the ceasefire lines. Their job wouldn’t be to fight but to send three clear messages:

To Ukraine: Europe has your back.
To the U.S.: We’re taking security seriously.
To Russia: If you break the ceasefire, you’ll face all of Europe, not just Kyiv.

It’s a bold strategy, but not everyone is convinced.

Would Europeans Support Sending Troops?

Politicians might talk tough, but public opinion tells a different story. In countries like Italy, nearly 50% of people oppose sending weapons to Ukraine—let alone troops.

The biggest concerns?

How many troops would be needed?
How long would they stay?
Who would be in charge?
What happens if Russia breaks the ceasefire—would that mean war?

Even military experts are skeptical. Lord Dannatt, former head of the British Army, has warned that the UK’s military is already stretched thin. He estimates that at least 100,000 troops would be needed, and the UK would be expected to contribute a significant number. But can it?

European leaders know that deploying troops without a U.S. security guarantee is risky. If things escalate, would America step in to help? That’s a question no one can answer right now.

Can Europe Really Increase Military Spending?

One of Trump’s biggest demands has been for Europe to spend more on defense. And while some countries, like Poland, have ambitious plans (targeting 4.47% of GDP on defense by 2025), others are struggling.

The UK, for example, is aiming for 2.5% of GDP, but even that goal is proving difficult to reach. European leaders know that defense spending isn’t just about budgets—it’s about convincing their voters that it’s necessary. And in an era where inflation and economic struggles dominate daily life, that’s no easy task.

Despite these challenges, the EU is expected to step up its defense efforts, pouring more money into joint military projects. But will that be enough to satisfy Washington?

The Bigger Picture: A New Era for European Security

The Paris summit isn’t just about Ukraine. It’s about Europe coming to terms with a new world order—one where the U.S. may not always be there to back them up.

French President Emmanuel Macron has been pushing for a stronger, more independent Europe for years. He believes the continent should rely less on outside powers—not just for defense but for technology, supply chains, and global influence.

But unity is easier said than done.

Some European nations still see NATO, and by extension the U.S., as their main security guarantee. Others, like France, are eager to carve out a separate European defense strategy. The question now is whether these competing visions can align before it’s too late.

What Happens Next?

Europe’s leaders may have gathered in Paris, but the real battle will be in Washington.

There’s already talk of sending envoys to the U.S. to make Europe’s case. Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, is seen as having close ties to Trump’s administration, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is scheduled to visit Washington soon.

This could be Europe’s last chance to prove it’s an indispensable ally.

But what if Trump isn’t paying attention?

That’s the nightmare scenario. If the U.S. turns away, Europe will have no choice but to handle security on its own.

And you can be sure that Vladimir Putin is watching every move they make.

Final Thoughts: Europe’s Defining Moment

The Paris summit marks a turning point for Europe. The days of relying on the U.S. for security are fading, and European leaders are facing a harsh reality: They need to step up or risk being sidelined in global affairs.

But major questions remain unanswered: