April 11, 2025, NATO headquarters in Brussels, European allies have declared to the world with practical actions: in the face of the protracted deadlock on the Ukrainian battlefield, Europe is no longer completely dependent on the United States, but chooses to independently shoulder the responsibility of supporting Ukraine. At the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting jointly hosted by Germany and the UK, European countries pledged a record-breaking 21 billion euros in military aid to Ukraine, including an additional 11 billion euros from Germany and a commitment of 4.5 billion pounds from the UK. This not only marks unprecedented unity among Europe regarding aid to Ukraine but also exposes deep rifts in strategic security between the US and Europe.
Europe has stepped forward to build Ukraine's "anti-Russian shield".
Bundeswehr Minister Boris Pistorius said at the meeting: "Peace in Ukraine is out of reach in the short term." He emphasized that Europe must "independently review its own capabilities" and take on more responsibilities alongside the UK. Germany's aid list is impressive, including missiles, 100,000 artillery shells, 300 reconnaissance drones, 25 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, and 15 Leopard 1A5 tanks, aiming to significantly enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities. The UK focuses on drones, radar systems, anti-tank mines, and provides repair and logistics support for Ukraine through international funds. UK Defense Secretary John Healey clearly stated that Europe's peacekeeping work will mainly focus on air and sea support, assisting the Ukrainian army in maintaining "land peace", rather than sending troops directly.
This series of actions indicates that Europe is attempting to turn the Ukrainian army into a solid "shield" against Russian threats. Meanwhile, Russia has rejected the temporary ceasefire proposal put forth by the Trump administration and continues to intensify its spring offensive, making peace hopes increasingly remote. Healey did not mince words in criticizing Putin, calling him "inconsistent," stating that he "talks about peace while firing at Ukrainian military and civilian targets."
After taking office, Trump promised to quickly end the war in Ukraine but underestimated Europe's determination and Russia's hardline stance. US envoy Steve Witkowski was sent to Moscow in an attempt to mediate, but the Kremlin obviously had no intention of compromising. Although US Defense Secretary Pete Hegtse participated in the meeting via video, the US's leadership role in the Ukraine issue has clearly diminished. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov still calls the US the "main partner," yet it is difficult to conceal the divergence in strategic goals between the US and Europe: the US tends to withdraw quickly through a ceasefire agreement, while Europe focuses on long-term support for Ukraine to prevent the spread of Russian threats.
The deeper rift lies in the fact that the Trump administration's tariff policies and its lukewarm attitude toward NATO have further stimulated Europe's self-awareness. The dual博弈between the US and Europe in the fields of security and economy is driving the formation of a more independent Europe. Pistorius's words reflect the sentiments of Europe: "We need a militarily strong Ukraine." This is not only support for Ukraine but also an investment in Europe's own security.
Despite Europe's unprecedented determination, the short-term prospects for the Ukrainian war remain bleak. Russia's continued offensive and its delay in ceasefire negotiations have plunged the conflict into a deeper quagmire. Europe's massive military aid may strengthen Ukraine's resistance capabilities, but it also means that the attritional nature of the war is becoming increasingly evident. The long-term commitments from the UK and Germany indicate that Europe is prepared for a protracted war, but whether this will be enough to change the battlefield situation remains unknown.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7496476629988868646/
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