Hey there! Have you heard the news from Europe? 🌍 European Union (EU) leaders got together on Thursday in Brussels and made some big decisions to help keep their countries safe and support their friends in Ukraine. Let’s dive into what happened! 🏛️
Strengthening Defense Across Europe 💪
The EU leaders agreed on a plan called ReArm Europe, introduced by the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen. This plan is all about making sure European countries have strong defense systems to protect themselves. 🛡️
They decided to activate something called the national escape clause under the Stability and Growth Pact. Sounds fancy, right? 😄 Basically, it means countries can spend more money on defense without worrying too much about certain budget rules. This helps them buy the equipment and resources they need to stay safe. 🚁🛩️
More Funds for Defense 💰
The leaders also talked about a new idea to offer up to 150 billion euros (that’s about $161.8 billion!) in loans to member countries. This money would come from the EU budget and help countries strengthen their defense even more. They asked the European Council to look at this idea quickly. 🏃♂️💨
Support for Ukraine 🇺🇦
In addition to boosting their own defenses, the EU leaders showed strong support for Ukraine. 26 leaders signed a statement expressing their commitment to help. (Hungary’s Prime Minister, Viktor Orban, didn’t join this agreement.) They believe that any talks about peace in Ukraine should include Ukraine itself and that Europe should be part of those talks. 🕊️
The EU promised to continue helping Ukraine financially. They are committing 30.6 billion euros in 2025! 🎉 This money will come from the Ukraine Facility and profits from certain Russian assets that have been held by the EU. This support is meant to help Ukraine during a very challenging time. 🤗
Why Is This Important? 🤔
All these decisions show that European countries are working together to keep their people safe and help their neighbors. Cooperation like this is key to maintaining peace and security in the world. 🌍✌️
Stay tuned for more updates on how countries around the world are working together! 📰
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
