French President Emmanuel Macron is currently in Warsaw to discuss European support for Ukraine with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Unofficially, secret talks are reportedly focusing on plans to station an international peacekeeping force in Ukraine post-war, with NATO strategists suggesting a contingent of 40,000 foreign soldiers, including a potential U.S. contribution.
In Berlin, the 7th German-Ukrainian Business Forum took place, emphasizing defense cooperation, energy, and German investments in Ukraine's post-war recovery. Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirmed Germany's commitment, highlighting that by October 31, 2024, Ukraine had received military aid from Germany totaling €11.04 billion. The forum addressed the need for private investments to support Ukraine's economy, which remains challenged by the ongoing war.
On the European front, Bulgaria and Romania are set to join the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025, eliminating border controls with other Schengen countries. This decision, welcomed by EU officials, marks a significant achievement for both nations after years of waiting since their EU accession in 2007. The move follows Austria lifting its veto, citing a reduction in illegal border crossings.