EU sets deadline to strengthen defense amid threat from Russia
Photo: a European Council meeting took place in Brussels (president.gov.ua)
Leaders of the European Union countries have agreed to significantly strengthen defense by 2030. They recognized Russia’s war against Ukraine as a serious threat to the bloc, according to the conclusions of the European Council meeting.
"The European Council took stock of work aiming to decisively ramp up Europe’s defence readiness by 2030. The European Council confirmed its determination to deliver at pace and at scale on this objective, so that Europe is better equipped to act and deal autonomously, in a coordinated way, and with a 360° approach, with immediate and future challenges and threats," the meeting’s conclusions state.
In Brussels, officials emphasize that the war against Ukraine has become an existential challenge for European security.
By 2030, the EU intends to develop a full spectrum of modern military capabilities — from air defense to space technologies. By the end of 2025, member states are expected to form coalitions around priority areas, and in the first half of 2026, to launch concrete joint projects.
Special attention is being given to strengthening the defense of the Union’s eastern borders and protecting critical infrastructure — energy, digital, and underwater. The EU also plans to develop counter-drone defense systems and accelerate the creation of shared space assets that can be used for security and defense purposes.
An important element of the strategy will be support for the defense industry. The European Council urged member states to invest more in joint research, production, and procurement of weapons, as well as to ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises have access to defense supply chains.
Furthermore, the EU emphasized the importance of active cooperation with Ukraine, including joint defense programs, particularly in the fields of military innovation and advanced technologies. Brussels believes that a strong and independent European defense base will complement NATO and enhance the continent’s resilience in the face of future threats.
Threat of a Russian attack
Yesterday, October 22, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that if Russia is not stopped, it could open a new front.
The head of state highlighted that small countries are particularly at risk. According to him, it does not matter whether they are members of the European Union or NATO.
Earlier, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen acknowledged that Europe is already in a state of hybrid warfare with Russia. In particular, the Russian forces are using drone provocations against European countries.
