Defence ministers from France, Germany, Italy, Poland and the United Kingdom met in Paris on 26 October 2026 and pledged that Europe must assume greater responsibility for its own security. In a joint statement, the group, known as the E5, said it would work towards a stronger Europe within a stronger NATO, in close coordination with the United States and other allies.

What the ministers agreed

The ministers said Russia represents the most acute and long-term threat to Euro-Atlantic security, citing its war against Ukraine, violations of allied airspace, sabotage and hybrid attacks. They pledged to modernise forces and capabilities, strengthen defence-industrial cooperation, improve readiness and resilience, and meet agreed NATO capability targets.

They also reaffirmed that the United States is and will remain an indispensable ally, and that continued American engagement is essential to a strong and credible NATO. The statement stresses that European defence efforts, including through the European Union, should complement NATO rather than duplicate it.

Ukraine and next steps

The ministers reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine, politically, militarily and financially, and said they would continue tackling Russia's shadow fleet in line with international law. French Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin said the group had agreed a coordinated plan developed in full transparency with Washington, with the next E5 meeting planned in Rome in March 2027.

Source: GOV.UK