JEF Leaders' Summit Emphasizes Continued Support for Ukraine

Security developments in Europe, support for Ukraine, and increased defence cooperation were among the topics discussed by the leaders of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) at their summit in Tallinn, Estonia, which concluded today. Foreign Minister Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir attended the meeting on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the meeting via video link, and the leaders discussed the importance of supporting Ukraine’s defence and ensuring the implementation and oversight of sanctions against Russia.

“Ukraine’s defence against Russia’s war of aggression is inseparable from Europe’s long term security. This was made clear at the Summit, and our support for Ukraine must be considered in this context,” the Minister said.

The leaders agreed to continue strengthening the defence capabilities of their nations and to enhance cooperation in this area, consistent with NATO commitments. Furthermore, it was decided that JEF nations would intensify cooperation regarding the so-called shadow fleet that Russia uses to circumvent sanctions.

In connection with the meeting, a Joint Statement was issued. It emphasized that “Russia is the most significant, direct, and long-term threat to the security, peace, and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area.” The statement also highlighted that the ten JEF nations have significantly enhanced their cooperation and actions against Russian sabotage, violence, cyberattacks, disinformation, and other hybrid threats.