E5 Defence Ministers Gather to Make Critical Statement on 26 October 2026

There is a shared consensus among our nations that Russia poses the most pressing and enduring threat to the security and stability of the Euro-Atlantic region. The ongoing aggression towards Ukraine, coupled with persistent violations of Allied airspace, acts of sabotage, and an increasing reliance on multi-domain hybrid warfare tactics, only serve to reinforce our unity, solidarity, and cohesion. Rather than weakening our resolve, these actions strengthen our determination to enhance the integrity and security of Allied territories through a comprehensive approach that addresses threats from all strategic angles.

Emphasising European Security Responsibility

The Defence Ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom, collectively known as the Group of Five (E5), firmly believe that Europe must take on a greater role in ensuring its own security. We are committed to working in close collaboration with the United States and all Allies to realise this concrete ambition. The United States remains an indispensable Ally, and its continued engagement in European security is crucial for a robust and credible NATO.

This increased responsibility must commence with the empowerment of European Allies within NATO. In the pursuit of a stronger Europe within a more robust NATO, we are already implementing tangible measures to fulfil the commitments established in The Hague, reiterated in Ankara, and to achieve agreed capability targets.

Leadership and Modernisation within NATO

We are prepared to take on greater political and military leadership within the Alliance, modernising our forces and capabilities, including through enhanced defence-industrial cooperation based on common and standardised requirements. We reaffirm our commitment to further strengthening NATO’s collective defence, enabling rapid adaptation to both current and future challenges, which includes adopting a more proactive deterrence and defence posture.

Our contributions will be bolstered to enhance readiness, resilience, and our capacity to respond to evolving threats across all domains. This will be achieved by promoting the development of essential capabilities, in alignment with NATO-agreed priorities and targets, employing a tailored and effective mix of complementary capabilities to meet the comprehensive range of operational demands.

Strengthening NATO and European Initiatives

NATO remains the cornerstone of our collective security framework. The Group of Five/E5 will advocate for a greater European capacity to act through various frameworks and initiatives, including the European Union, thereby complementing the sovereign responsibilities of individual states and fostering intergovernmental cooperation.

We underscore the significance of a nation-led, coordinated approach that aligns with NATO. We commend the European Union’s initiatives aimed at supporting nations in fulfilling NATO’s defence capability requirements and enhancing European defence readiness. The EU’s regulatory and financial capabilities represent a valuable asset in support of our nations’ ambitions. Furthermore, EU defence initiatives should complement NATO efforts, avoid unnecessary duplication, and remain open to meaningful cooperation with non-EU NATO Allies, subject to certain conditions.

Commitment to Ukraine and Security Guarantees

Our unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine in its resistance against Russian aggression remains steadfast. Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, both now and in the future, is vital for the collective security of the Euro-Atlantic community.

We stress the necessity of maintaining support for Ukraine through all available means — politically, militarily, and financially. We reaffirm our determination to address the activities of Russia’s shadow fleet in accordance with international law and in cooperation with relevant partners.

We stand united with Ukraine in its quest for a lasting peace, which must be underpinned by robust security guarantees. The Coalition of the Willing will play a pivotal role in providing credible security guarantees once a ceasefire or peace agreement is reached.