The writer is a military analyst and author of the forthcoming book ‘How the United States Would Fight China’

European leaders will not be at the table when US President Donald Trump meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. But the summit — whatever its outcome — could potentially have major consequences for the future security of their continent. Whether the talks break down or perhaps lead to a ceasefire, Europe’s leaders must decide how far they will go to ensure that Ukraine remains an independent nation.

Having travelled to the frontline in Donbas last month, I can attest to the bravery of Ukrainian soldiers and noticeable signs of exhaustion. The country’s forces continue to suffer from a manpower deficit, and while the front is mostly holding for now, with a collapse unlikely, Kyiv risks losing its advantage in drone warfare — the pivotal element in Ukraine’s defensive system — due to Moscow’s superior organisation and ability to scale up drone operations.