The European Union is at a critical juncture in its defense strategy, as newly appointed Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius emphasizes the urgent need for rearmament in response to escalating threats, particularly from Russia. Kubilius, the first to hold this newly established role, outlined his priorities during a recent address to the European Parliament, highlighting the necessity of maintaining military support for Ukraine and enhancing the EU's own military capabilities. With intelligence reports suggesting that Russia may be preparing for military aggression before 2030, the EU must confront its significant capability gaps and dependency on U.S. military support, particularly in areas such as strategic airlift and space-based intelligence. The commissioner advocates for a shift from incremental defense development to a comprehensive approach that addresses immediate and long-term security challenges.
To effectively counter these threats, Kubilius calls for a robust financial commitment to defense, proposing the need to raise €500 billion over the next decade. He stresses that failure to support Ukraine could lead to more severe military contingencies and embolden authoritarian regimes globally. The EU must develop clear plans with financial backing to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine and signal to adversaries that it is prepared for sustained conflict. Furthermore, the commissioner highlights the importance of aligning EU defense initiatives with NATO's long-term capability targets, aiming for implementation by 2030. By pooling resources and fostering a common defense market, the EU can enhance its military readiness and ultimately contribute to a more secure European landscape, countering both Russian aggression and the broader axis of authoritarianism.
