European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed a €800 billion Rearm Europe Plan to strengthen EU defence capabilities. This follows Washington’s suspension of military aid to Ukraine, increasing pressure on the bloc. The plan includes €150 billion in loans for joint defence investments and exemptions from fiscal rules to boost spending. Poland already spends 4.12% of its GDP on defence, while Spain lags at 1.12%. EU leaders will discuss the proposal at an extraordinary summit in Brussels, where divisions persist, with Hungary and Slovakia opposing increased aid to Ukraine. A final decision may come in March.
EU SECURITY PLEDGE FOR UKRAINE
European Council President António Costa acknowledged differences with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán over achieving peace in Ukraine but emphasised the need for strong EU security guarantees. In a letter dated March 3, Costa stressed Europe’s role in upcoming peace negotiations and aligning with transatlantic allies. The exchange comes ahead of an EU summit on March 6, following U.S.-led talks with Russia in Saudi Arabia, which excluded Ukraine and Europe. Orbán had urged direct talks with Russia, aligning with the U.S. approach. The EU is now preparing to participate in future discussions to ensure Ukraine’s long-term security.
ARAB LEADERS DISCUSS GAZA’S FUTURE
Arab leaders convene in Cairo for an emergency summit to counter US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal for Gaza’s future. The US plan suggests relocating 2.1 million Palestinians to create a Middle Eastern “riviera.” Egypt and Jordan, most affected by displacement, firmly oppose the idea. Meanwhile, Qatar and Saudi Arabia aim to assert diplomatic influence, while the UAE’s stance remains ambiguous. Palestinian representatives argue the summit is crucial for unity, though internal divisions persist. As regional powers balance economic concerns with political strategy, the meeting highlights the complex geopolitical stakes surrounding Gaza’s reconstruction and the future of its people.
RUSSIA PRAISES US MOVE
U.S. President Donald Trump has halted military aid to Ukraine, drawing praise from Russia. The suspension affects millions in military supplies, originally approved under Joe Biden. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov called it “the best contribution to peace,” suggesting it could push Ukraine toward negotiations. U.S. Vice President JD Vance highlighted Ukraine’s manpower shortages and financial struggles, emphasizing the need for peace talks. The move follows a tense White House meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who left without signing a key minerals deal.
CANADA RETALIATES WITH TARIFFS
Canada is set to impose 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of American goods in response to US tariffs on Canadian imports. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that $30 billion in tariffs would be effective immediately, with the remaining $125 billion following in 21 days. He warned that US tariffs would raise prices on groceries, gas, and cars while risking job losses. The tariffs target dairy, poultry, and other goods. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, citing national interests. The trade war escalates with no resolution in sight.
