The European Union is at a critical juncture as it grapples with escalating military threats, primarily from Russia. Newly appointed Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius has emphasized the urgency of rearmament and military preparedness, particularly in light of intelligence suggesting potential Russian aggression by 2030. Kubilius, the first to occupy this newly established role, is tasked with drafting a defense white paper that will outline necessary measures to bolster the EU's military capabilities. He highlights the stark reality that Russia's military production capabilities now surpass those of the German Army, underscoring the need for the EU to address significant capability gaps in conventional weapons and strategic enablers, which have historically relied on U.S. support.
Kubilius advocates for a paradigm shift in the EU's defense strategy, moving from incremental improvements to a comprehensive "Big Bang approach." This strategy encompasses three critical areas: sustained military aid to Ukraine, enhancing Europe's defense production and readiness, and securing robust financial backing for defense initiatives. He warns that failure to support Ukraine could lead to earlier and more severe military confrontations with Russia, while also stressing the interconnectedness of global authoritarian threats. The commissioner calls for increased defense spending, with a potential €500 billion target over the next decade, and emphasizes the necessity of a unified European defense structure within NATO. Ultimately, the EU must prioritize tangible military assets to effectively deter aggression, rather than relying solely on procedural improvements.
