On 10 December 2024, the first Southwestern Europe – Ukraine Forum took place in Madrid, Spain, focusing on the theme “Supporting Ukraine in 2025 and Beyond: The Role of Italy, Spain, and Portugal.”
The event was organised by the independent think tank “Ukrainian Prism” in the field of foreign policy and international security, with Sahaidachnyi Security Center and the French think tank “Eastern Circles” acting as co-organisers.
Held under the Chatham House Rule, the event brought together experts and practitioners in foreign policy from Ukraine, Italy, Spain, and Portugal for a strategic discussion on supporting Ukraine amidst the evolving international landscape.
With the upcoming changes in the EU leadership and the anticipated shift in the US administration potentially questioning continued support for Ukraine, the forum provided a crucial platform for discussing the role of these Southwestern European countries in ensuring security in Ukraine and globally.
The forum also covered Ukraine’s current priorities, the contributions of these countries, and support in 2025, along with defining common components of their policies in relation to Ukraine’s plans. Specifically, participants discussed new opportunities and scenarios emerging in 2025 and ways to collaborate in the coming years.
The organisers hope that this forum will become an annual communication platform, where each of the four countries (Ukraine, Italy, Spain, Portugal) will take turns hosting and coordinating future events.
