Emmanuel Macron is convening a Paris summit with European defense powers to reinforce Europe's position regarding Ukraine as US-Russia dialogues commence. There is apprehension in Europe about Russia's intentions to impose neutrality upon Ukraine and create a division of influence between the US and Russia. Central to the summit is the discussion of Europe's defense capabilities for Ukraine and the potential for automatic NATO membership if Russia violates any ceasefire. The summit reflects a collective European strategy amidst complex geopolitical negotiations involving high-level talks in Riyadh.
In a call on Saturday setting up the talks with the US, the Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, reiterated Moscow's demand to ensure Ukraine's neutrality.
There are fears in Europe that Russia will relaunch its plan for imposed Ukrainian neutrality and a joint US-Russia carve up with agreed spheres of influence.
The Paris meeting will also discuss what defence capabilities Europe could provide to give Ukraine credible security guarantees.
The US will be represented in Riyadh by the secretary of state, Marco Rubio, national security adviser, Mike Waltz and special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff.
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