Commits to 'unwavering support for Ukraine' with pledge to offer more air defence - Europe live

The G7 leaders meeting in France issued a statement affirming unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, noting Ukraine’s resilience and progress on the battlefield and signaling new momentum. They pledged to accelerate aid by increasing the delivery of air-defense capacities, additional systems and interceptors, and long-range capabilities, while also considering licenses to expand Ukraine’s military production. The statement calls for stronger pressure on Russia’s war economy through sanctions, including on oil and gas sectors. Leaders are set to discuss economic growth and AI, with upcoming meetings involving OpenAI and Anthropic. Later, France’s Macron will host the US president at Versailles to mark the 250th anniversary of US independence, with NATO’s Mark Rutte preparing remarks ahead of defense ministers’ talks and the Ankara summit, as coverage continues.