French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have announced the convening of a special video conference of the so-called 'coalition of the willing' on the fourth anniversary of the Russian aggression against Ukraine. The meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, 2026, will bring together representatives from 35 countries involved in assisting Kyiv. The initiative aims to reaffirm unwavering military and diplomatic support in the face of the prolonged conflict and increasing pressure from the Russian Federation.

Summit of the coalition of the willing

President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Keir Starmer will lead a video conference on February 24, 2026 with the participation of 35 countries supporting Ukraine.

Fourth anniversary of the invasion

The meeting was convened on the symbolic date of the 4th anniversary of Russia's attack to demonstrate the durability of the Western alliance and readiness for further assistance.

Olivier Faure's visit

French Socialist leader Olivier Faure will travel to Kyiv from February 22-25, emphasizing the solidarity of the European left.

The Élysée Palace officially announced that Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer will lead an international meeting of representatives from 35 countries belonging to the so-called „coalition of the willing”. The event will be held remotely precisely on February 24, 2026, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of the start of Russia's full-scale aggression on Ukrainian territory. This initiative sends a clear signal to Vladimir Putin that Western support for Kyiv remains steadfast, despite the passage of years and growing logistical and political challenges in Europe. Since 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea, NATO countries have regularly enhanced readiness along the eastern flank, and after February 2022, the scale of military aid to Ukraine has reached levels unseen since the end of the Cold War.The situation on the front in 2026 remains tense, and European armies are forced to undergo intensive modernization and increase arms production following the reduction of direct financial involvement by some non-European powers. The French Prime Minister and the head of the British government intend to use the summit to discuss new ammunition supply strategies and strengthening Ukrainian air defense. Parallel to high-level diplomatic actions, party leaders are also active – Olivier Faure, First Secretary of the French Socialist Party, announced a personal visit to Kyiv from February 22 to 25 to demonstrate solidarity with the Ukrainian people. „While the war continues, Europe and particularly France have a duty to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukrainians, reaffirming their commitment to their freedom.” — Élysée PalaceThe media emphasize that the fourth anniversary is not only a time to summarize the tragic human costs but also a critical moment for European security, which is directly dependent on the outcome of the struggle at the European Union's eastern border. The coalition of the willing is set to become the foundation of a new security architecture in the region. 35 countries — participates in the coalition supporting Ukraine The media emphasize the moral duty of France and Europe to actively support Ukraine and the necessity to oppose Russian imperialism. | Commentators point to military costs and the need for a realistic assessment of the chances to end the conflict amid societal fatigue.

Mentioned People

  • Emmanuel Macron — President of France, co-organizer of the coalition of the willing summit.
  • Keir Starmer — Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, co-chair of Tuesday's video conference.
  • Olivier Faure — First Secretary of the French Socialist Party, planning a visit to Kyiv.
  • Vladimir Putin — President of Russia, responsible for the decision to invade Ukraine in 2022.
  • Olaf Scholz — Former Chancellor of Germany, mentioned in the context of the early stages of the war.