The JEF is a 10‑nation rapid‑response coalition that can act independently of NATO, though all of its members also belong to the alliance. The meeting came as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer authorized UK forces to intercept and, if necessary, board Russian “shadow fleet” tankers used to evade sanctions on oil exports, an announcement he made in connection with his trip to the Helsinki summit. Leaders were also expected to review the JEF’s future role and cooperation with partners, but there were no formal decisions announced on potential enlargement, such as involving non‑European allies like Canada or adding new European members such as Poland.