Coalition reaffirms Ukraine's 'inherent right' to defend against Russia

Leaders of the Coalition of the Willing on Monday reaffirmed Ukraine's "clear and inherent right" to defend itself against Russia, gathering in the capital Kyiv to mark the 35th anniversary of Ukrainian independence as the Soviet Union's collapse loomed. The meeting, co-chaired by British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, produced a joint statement condemning Moscow's "systematic and escalating" attacks on cities, civilians and critical infrastructure.

"They were united in their continued support of Ukraine's fight to defend its sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity," the statement said, noting the commemoration took place both in Kyiv and via video conference.

Security guarantees and defense rights

"Leaders reiterated Ukraine's clear and inherent right to defend itself against the Russian war of aggression, in full compliance with international law and Article 51 of the UN Charter," the statement said. The leaders stated they would not be deterred by what they termed "irresponsible Russian threats," adding that preparations would continue for the Multinational-Force Ukraine to deploy once a credible cessation of hostilities is in place.

The deployment would form part of a wider set of robust politically and legally binding security guarantees to ensure Ukraine's future security and prosperity once a ceasefire enters into force, according to the statement.

Military aid and economic pressure

The coalition agreed on the urgency of providing immediate assistance for Ukraine's energy sector ahead of the coming winter, including through the Ukraine Energy Support Fund and the provision of specialized equipment. They voiced determination to increase military support, strengthen air defense as a matter of urgent priority, and enhance cooperation with Ukraine's defense industry through technology sharing initiatives including the Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition.

The leaders noted that joint efforts through sanctions and economic measures have deprived Russia's war chest of at least $495 billion since February 2022, welcoming recent US Senate efforts to apply further economic pressure on Moscow. The statement also condemned Russia's attacks on Ukraine's cultural heritage sites including the historic Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery, which form an integral part of Ukraine's national identity.

Calls for ceasefire

The statement commended Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's "continued readiness" to enter into meaningful peace talks in order to bring about a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. The leaders reiterated their call for Russia to agree to a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire starting from the line of contact, reaffirming their commitment to support Ukraine's independence as part of Europe's wider peace and security architecture.