In a display of diplomatic strength aimed at exerting pressure on Moscow, European leaders are convening at a summit in Moldova, one of the most vulnerable points along the continent’s strategic front line.
The gathering, organised by the European Political Community (EPC), comprises 27 EU member states and 40 allied nations, deliberately excluding Russia and Belarus.
By choosing Moldova as the venue for their second summit, located in close proximity to a breakaway region backed by the Kremlin and not far from conflict-stricken Ukraine, the EPC aims to send a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The decision demonstrates solidarity with Moldova in the face of Russian destabilization efforts and reinforces support for its aspirations to join the European Union.
Additionally, the summit provides an opportunity for European states, including EU members, recent departee Britain, and aspiring members like Ukraine, to collaborate on addressing regional crises.
French President Emmanuel Macron, an advocate for the EPC, emphasized the importance of considering a broader Europe beyond the scope of NATO’s security framework and the European Union.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, present at the summit, is not only seeking solidarity but also advancements in Ukraine’s aspirations to join both NATO and the European Union.
As the Moldova summit unfolds, it coincides with a separate gathering of NATO ministers, featuring the participation of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who have convened to deliberate on the upcoming summit of the alliance.
The convergence of these events underscores the importance of regional cooperation and the strategic considerations surrounding Ukraine’s integration into international organizations.
