Moscow faced its largest drone attack from Ukraine before U.S. and Ukrainian officials met in Saudi Arabia for peace talks. Former Italian Prime Minister Letta proposed a new European Common Defence System supporting military integration. Over 30 nations convened in Paris to discuss international military cooperation against Russian aggression, with President Macron addressing the meeting.
On March 11, 2025, the Kremlin anticipates the United States will provide updates on the ongoing talks with Ukraine in Saudi Arabia. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, reported that there are expectations surrounding the presence of former U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow for engagements with President Vladimir Putin. Peskov assured that any developments regarding Witkoff’s discussions would be communicated by the Kremlin in due course.
Former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta called for the establishment of a new European Common Defence System that would encompass the 27 EU member states along with the UK, Norway, Iceland, and several Balkan nations. In an article for Le Monde, Letta emphasized the need for greater integration beyond mere military measures, citing areas such as energy independence and enhanced economic structures as broad objectives for security.
In a separate gathering in Paris, senior military representatives from more than 30 nations convened to discuss the formation of an international force aimed at deterring future Russian aggression, contingent upon a ceasefire being established. This meeting serves as a significant effort to unify international support for Ukraine and forms part of the Paris Defence Forum, which will feature a keynote address by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Hours before these international discussions, Ukraine executed what has been described as its largest drone assault on Moscow, reportedly deploying 337 drones, with 91 targeting the Moscow region. The attack resulted in at least one casualty and led to significant disruptions in air and train travel as Russian authorities took measures to respond to the situation.
Amidst these developments, U.S. and Ukrainian officials are meeting in Jeddah to discuss potential pathways toward concluding the conflict stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Central to these talks is anticipated progress regarding a minerals deal that was initially discussed during previous diplomatic visits. Officials, including U.S. State Secretary Marco Rubio, have indicated that productive discussions must address the acknowledgment of limitations on military solutions to the ongoing conflict to facilitate any advances toward long-term solutions, including a ceasefire and the exchange of hostages.
In summary, the geopolitical landscape surrounding Ukraine is evolving with significant events underway. The anticipation of a U.S. report on discussions with Ukraine in Saudi Arabia coincides with crucial military consultations in Paris. While Ukraine launched a massive drone attack on Moscow, the dialogues led by U.S. officials highlight the urgency to establish peaceful resolutions through collaboration and strategic partnerships. Letta’s advocacy for a unified European defense approach reflects the broader commitment to security in response to ongoing threats.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
