What's happened
On October 19, G7 defense ministers pledged unwavering support for Ukraine, endorsing President Zelenskyy's 'victory plan' aimed at ending the war with Russia. The plan includes a formal NATO invitation, which remains contentious among Western allies. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to face Russian military actions, including drone attacks on Kyiv.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, G7 defense ministers expressed 'unwavering support' for Ukraine, highlighting the importance of military assistance in both the short and long term. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized the need for a collective effort to rally support for Zelenskyy's 'victory plan,' which includes a NATO invitation. However, the plan has received mixed reactions from Western allies, with concerns about escalating tensions with Russia. The Independent notes that France is set to deliver Mirage 2000 jets to Ukraine, showcasing its commitment to military support. Meanwhile, reports of North Korean troops aiding Russia signal a new level of desperation for Moscow, as highlighted by the White House's national security council spokesperson.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Ukraine has sought military and diplomatic support from Western allies. President Zelenskyy's recent proposal aims to negotiate an end to the conflict while securing NATO membership, a contentious issue among allies.
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Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a Ukrainian politician, actor and comedian who is the 6th and current president of Ukraine, serving since May 2019.
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Jean-Noël Barrot is a French politician who has served as Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs in the government of Prime Minister Michel Barnier since 21 September 2024.
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