PM Frieden Calls for European Unity on Ukraine; Luxembourg to Stand on Right Side of History

Prime Minister Luc Frieden delivered a statement on behalf of the Luxembourg government on Ukraine and European security during a public session held in the Chamber of Deputies (parliament) on the afternoon of Tuesday 4 March 2025.

The prime minister emphasised Luxembourg's unwavering support for Ukraine amid continued Russian aggression and hinted at a shift in European security policy in response to recent developments in the United States, notably the latter's decision to pause military aid to Ukraine following the White House showdown that took place on Friday 28 February 2025. He also mentioned US Vice President JD Vance's controversial remarks on free speech at the Munich Security Conference, saying such events demonstrated "fundamental changes" in US politics and US-Europe relations.

Prime Minister Frieden's speech centred on five main points. First, he clarified that Russia started the war, clearly violating international law and the UN Charter. He assured that Luxembourg continues to stand firmly with Ukraine, as do other democracies around the world. He noted that Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom but also for "our freedom" and for international law and security. The prime minister reiterated that Ukraine must be involved in any decisions about its own future, arguing for "a fair and lasting peace", as well as "credible security guarantees" to prevent future Russian aggression. He assured that Luxembourg will continue to provide financial and military assistance to Ukraine. However, the Grand Duchy would consider sending troops only under an international or EU mandate, i.e. within the framework of a peace mission, which would follow a peace agreement.

Secondly, Prime Minister Frieden addressed the topic of European security amid the new political direction taken by the US since President Donald Trump's return to the White House on 20 January 2025. He stressed the need for more European unity and self-reliance, noting that this approach was not anti-America, but rather pro-Europe. Europe must strengthen itself militarily and economically. He welcomed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's "ReArm Europe" plan, which would mobilise around €800 billion for Europe's defence.

Thirdly, the prime minister turned his attention to policy and action within Luxembourg. He acknowledged that developments in Ukraine affect all of Europe. He reiterated Luxembourg’s commitment of spending 2% of its gross national income (GNI) on defence (NATO), adding that a shift in security policy is needed in response to new geopolitical realities.

His fourth point focused on relations with the US, which has been a key ally over the years based on shared values and history. "America and the American people remain our friends," the prime minister said, acknowledging the need and desire to continue working together, including within NATO (although the European pillar should be strengthened). "Together we are stronger," he added.

His last point centred around defending European values and principles. Prime Minister Frieden recalled that peace and freedom come with a price - a matter to be discussed seriously in the coming weeks, months and years. He said now was a decisive moment and stressed his desire that Luxembourg stands on the right side of history.

The prime minister's statement drew broad parliamentary support in the debate that followed. Most of the MPs who spoke took turns denouncing the treatment of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House last Friday - and recalling that Russia is the aggressor, Ukraine the victim. They reflected on good historic relations with the US but also acknowledged its policy changes and questioned what these mean for Europe. Most of the speakers stressed the need for a stronger Europe, continued solidarity with Ukraine and a just peace.

CSV MP Laurent Zeimet reflected on his recent visit to the Ukrainian parliament in Kyiv and expressed his hope for peace and freedom; he noted how the world has "dramatically changed" and emphasised the need for courage to face this new situation. DP MP Gusty Graas asked what the new US political approach means for Europe, stressing the need for a stronger Europe and solidarity. He agreed that peace costs money; it also requires courageous political decisions. LSAP MP Yves Cruchten also touched on the US shift away from Europe and advocated a stronger political union and a better defence policy, which is less dependent on the US.

Greens MP Sam Tanson warned that "America First risks meaning Europe Alone" and stressed the need for a strong Europe that protects democracy, its values and its future. Pirate Party MP Sven Clement noted that Europe had relied on the US for too long, saying now is the time to act; he suggested investing more in the Luxembourg army. "It is clear that Europe's existence is in danger", he stated.

The Left's David Wagner agreed that Americans are not the enemy, but warned that people like Donald Trump and Elon Musk "are not our friends". He spoke of the loss of human life but also economic and democratic consequences of the war in Ukraine. He asked who would pay for increased security - millionaires (preferably) or ordinary working people?

ADR MP Fred Keup expressed his (controversial) view that peace should be achieved at any price. Whilst he acknowledged that Russia had invaded Ukraine, he said he would rather see "an unjust peace than a just war". His comments drew criticism (and questions) from fellow MPs.

In his final comment, Prime Minister Frieden assured that the discussions would continue on the important topic of "the future of our continent, our country", in Luxembourg but also at the European and international levels.