The appointment of Andrius Kubilius as the EU's first defense commissioner marks a pivotal moment for European security, particularly in light of the escalating threats posed by Russia. Kubilius emphasizes that Russia remains the foremost military threat to the EU, necessitating a robust response that includes sustained military aid to Ukraine and a comprehensive rearmament strategy. His forthcoming defense white paper aims to outline critical measures for the EU to prepare for extreme military contingencies, especially as intelligence suggests a potential Russian military aggression could occur before 2030. The urgency of this situation is compounded by the EU's reliance on the U.S. for military capabilities, highlighting significant capability gaps within European defense infrastructure.
Kubilius advocates for a transformative shift in the EU's defense posture, moving from incremental improvements to a more aggressive "Big Bang approach" that prioritizes Ukraine, enhances European production capabilities, and secures necessary financing. He underscores the interconnected nature of global threats, warning that a failure to support Ukraine could embolden authoritarian regimes and destabilize geopolitical balances, particularly in Asia. The commissioner calls for a unified democratic front and proposes raising €500 billion for defense over the next decade, while also addressing the need for immediate funding solutions. Ultimately, the EU must prioritize tangible military assets over bureaucratic processes to effectively counter aggression and ensure regional stability.
