E5 Defence ministers meet in Paris

26.10.2026 Europe’s top defence ministers discussed Russia-Ukraine war, as well as their support for Ukraine. Officials from the EU and NATO joined them.

Catherine Vautrin, French defence minister, hosted the talks. She said the group’s aim was a stronger Europe in a stronger NATO. “As far as we’re concerned, it’s very important not to allow ourselves to be intimidated and to never become disunited.”

Boris Pistorius, German defence minister, was blunter about Moscow. He noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to a meeting with America and Ukraine. He saw little reason for hope. “There’s no signals whatsoever that would say that Putin is looking for peace.”