The Coalition of the Willing convened today, 24 August 2026, in Kyiv and via video conference, to mark the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. The meeting was co-chaired by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, President Emmanuel Macron, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and President Zelenskyy.
Leaders condemned Russia's systematic and escalating strikes against Ukrainian cities, critical infrastructure, and civilians, noting the highest number of civilian casualties since the 2022 invasion. They also highlighted damage to a children's hospital in Kyiv the previous week and attacks on cultural heritage sites, including the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.
The coalition reiterated Ukraine's right to self-defence and pledged not to be deterred by Russian threats. They expressed determination to increase military support, urgently strengthen Ukraine's air defence, enhance defence industry cooperation, and share relevant technologies, including through the Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition. Commitments were also made to intensify sanctions on Russia's military industrial complex.
Immediate assistance for Ukraine's energy sector ahead of winter was agreed upon, alongside continued support for economic resilience against Russia's attempts to renew its maritime blockade. Leaders also agreed to continue efforts to constrain Russia's war chest through sanctions and economic measures, noting that joint action has deprived Russia of at least $495 billion since February 2022.
The leaders commended President Zelenskyy's readiness for meaningful peace talks and called for Russia to agree to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. The Coalition also stated it would prepare the Multinational-Force Ukraine for deployment once a credible cessation of hostilities is in place, as part of future security guarantees.