Ankara: French President Emmanuel Macron's office announced that the forthcoming NATO summit in Ankara will focus on European security, support for Ukraine, and the realignment of US-European efforts.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Elysee Palace stated during a news briefing that the summit presents an opportunity for Europeans to assume more responsibility for their own security, enhance allies' support for Ukraine, and foster a realignment of efforts between Europeans and Americans. This aligns with the core principles that Macron has advocated for years, emphasizing European strategic autonomy, increased burden-sharing, and the necessity to rebuild convergence with the US through enhanced responsibility-sharing.
Macron's office highlighted that the summit is anticipated to confirm a commitment to provide approximately £70 billion (around $80 billion) in support for Ukraine in 2026, with similar support expected in 2027. However, it noted that this commitment could be subject to final adjustments. Additionally, the Elysee Palace stressed the importance of NATO assessing the risk of escalation by Russia, which is seen as a fundamental aspect of the alliance's mission.
In response to inquiries about what capabilities France might offer to compensate for US reductions under the NATO force model, Macron's office clarified that France does not intend to replace US capabilities. Nonetheless, it emphasized the need for European allies to consider developing a new capability model for NATO.
Furthermore, the Elysee Palace indicated that a bilateral meeting between Macron and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is likely to occur on the sidelines of the summit. While specific details on the agenda of the meeting were not provided, it was mentioned that their discussion would encompass the full spectrum of issues in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
The statement reiterated that Macron's message at the NATO summit will highlight the necessity for Europeans to take greater responsibility for their security and future, continue supporting Ukraine, and strengthen convergence between the US and European nations.