Austria joins Coalition of the Willing as an observer state

She announced this on her official Facebook page, according to Ukrinform.

“Today, on behalf of Federal Chancellor Stocker, I participated in a videoconference of the Coalition of the Willing. As an observer state, we share a common goal with all participants: lasting peace in Ukraine,” Meinl-Reisinger stated.

She emphasized that Austria stands ready to serve as a venue for peace negotiations to end Russia’s war against Ukraine, underscoring its commitment to “the security and stability of Ukraine and Europe.”

As reported by Ukrinform, a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing took place on Thursday at the Élysée Palace in Paris. The session was co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that the coalition shares Ukraine’s view that Russia intends to prolong the war, and stressed the need to intensify pressure on the Kremlin through sanctions. The European Union is currently working on its 19th sanctions package, while Japan is preparing its own measures.

President Macron emphasized that the 26 member countries of the Coalition of the Willing are prepared to be present on land, at sea, or in the air to ensure Ukraine’s security. He clarified that the coalition’s goal is not to wage war against Russia, but to guarantee peace and send a clear strategic signal.