The Weimar+ group is a diplomatic and geopolitical alliance that emerged in February 2025, expanding upon the original Weimar Triangle—which included France, Germany, and Poland—to incorporate additional European powers such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and representatives from the European Commission. This coalition was formed in response to shifts in US policy under President Donald Trump, particularly concerning the Russo-Ukrainian War and the transatlantic security framework. The impetus for its creation was President Trump’s direct communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which notably excluded European participation in negotiations related to Ukraine.
The name "Weimar+" derives from the post-World War I government of Germany, liberal and democratic, known as the "Weimar Republic" that was established to keep Lenin's and then Stalin's Soviet Union at bay but that was ultimately overtaken by Adolf Hitler's Nazi Germany. Let us hope that Weimar+ does not suffer the same fate as the Weimar Republic, through want of attention by her principal western militarised allies pending German military retransformation.
Origins and Formation of the Current Alliance
The original Weimar Triangle was established in 1991 in Weimar, Germany, as a platform for cooperation among France, Germany, and Poland on European integration and security matters. In February 2025, recognising the need for a more robust and inclusive European response to evolving geopolitical challenges, the alliance expanded to include the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and the European Commission, thus forming Weimar+. This expansion aimed to promote European sovereignty and enhance geopolitical influence independent of the United States, especially regarding support for Ukraine and potential increases in national military spending.
Common Foreign and Security Policies
Weimar+ countries share a commitment to:
• Supporting Ukraine’s Sovereignty: Upholding Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression.
• Achieving a Just Peace: Continuing support for Ukraine until a comprehensive and lasting peace is realised that safeguards both Ukrainian and European interests.
• European Involvement in Negotiations: Asserting that Ukraine and Europe must be integral participants in any negotiations concerning Ukraine’s future, ensuring that Ukraine is positioned from a stance of strength.
• Strengthening Collective Defence: Collaborating to enhance Europe’s collective defense capabilities, acknowledging that the continent’s security is a shared responsibility.
Resolution of 31 March 2025
During the Weimar+ meeting on 31 March 2025, the member countries adopted a resolution emphasising:
• Enhanced Support for Ukraine: A commitment to increase military and financial assistance to Ukraine to bolster her defence capabilities.
• Sanctions Against Russia: The implementation of additional sanctions targeting key sectors of the Russian economy, independent of U.S. actions, to pressure Russia into ceasing its aggression.
• Rejection of External Restrictions: A declaration that no external entity has the right to impose limitations on the development of Ukraine’s armed forces or to prevent Ukraine from inviting foreign forces onto its territory for legitimate self-defence purposes.
European-Led Sanctions and Relations with Ukraine
Weimar+ has taken a proactive stance in imposing sanctions against Russia, operating independently of the United States. This initiative underscores Europe’s determination to address security concerns within its region autonomously. The group’s unwavering support for Ukraine includes military aid and advocacy for Ukraine’s integration into European structures. The recent resolution reinforces Ukraine’s sovereignty, asserting her right to develop her military and engage in alliances necessary for her defence - presumably within or without NATO.
Interaction with US Diplomacy
The European-led efforts of Weimar+ contrast with the stalled American diplomatic initiatives concerning Russia and Ukraine. President Donald Trump has expressed frustration over Europe’s independent actions, which he perceives as undermining US strategies. However European leaders argue that their proximity to the conflict necessitates a more immediate and assertive response, especially given the perceived inadequacies of US diplomatic engagement.
Potential Implications
• For Washington: The Weimar+ initiative may compel the US to reassess her approach to the conflict, possibly leading to increased support for Ukraine to maintain transatlantic unity and prevent perceptions of diminished influence.
• For Moscow: Russia may view the strengthened European coalition as a significant challenge, potentially altering its strategic calculations and responses in the region.
• For Kyiv: Ukraine stands to benefit from enhanced support and solidarity from European nations, bolstering her defence capabilities and international standing.
In conclusion, the Weimar+ group represents a pivotal shift towards European autonomy in addressing continental security challenges, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. By fostering closer cooperation and taking decisive actions, Weimar+ aims to ensure regional stability and uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.