EU Leaders Urgently Convene in Angola to Address Ukraine Peace Deal

UPDATE: European leaders are gathering today, September 25, 2023, in Luanda, Angola, for an emergency summit to discuss the latest US peace plan for Ukraine. This crucial meeting is part of the EU-African Union Summit, marking a significant 25-year partnership between the two entities.

The summit comes at a pivotal moment as Taoiseach Micheál Martin prepares to participate in discussions focused on advancing peace and prosperity. Prior to the summit, leaders will engage in an informal meeting of the European Council, convened by President Antonio Costa, to review recent developments regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

This meeting follows a hastily arranged discussion among members of the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ during the G20 Summit, where US President Donald Trump presented his controversial peace proposal. Leaders emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy, with Taoiseach Martin asserting that “any suggestion that Ukraine would have to cede parts of its land would not be acceptable.”

“Peace in Ukraine must be a just and lasting peace,” Martin stated, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The initial draft of the 28-point plan is recognized as a starting point that will require further negotiation and refinement.

In addition to the summit discussions, Martin is expected to engage in several bilateral talks with other leaders, aiming to strengthen Ireland’s global influence and support for Ukraine. He arrived in Angola from Johannesburg after attending the G20 leaders’ summit, describing the event as a valuable networking opportunity for Ireland.

The urgency of these discussions cannot be overstated, as the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate. The EU remains focused on working closely with the US and Ukraine to ensure a sustainable peace process.

As the summit unfolds, the international community watches closely for any developments that could reshape the future of peace in Ukraine. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent matter.