Ukraine’s security cannot be separated from Europe’s security – European Council President
Photo: President of the European Council António Costa (Getty Images)
On Tuesday, March 11, the European Parliament held debates on the EU's defense capabilities and support for Ukraine. During the session, European Council President António Costa emphasized that Europe's security is inseparably linked to Ukraine's security, according to the European Parliament's press service.
Speaking before the deputies, Costa emphasized that Europe is currently facing geopolitical tensions and serious challenges. According to him, Russia's war against Ukraine and the broader threat to Europe have forced the EU to make ambitious decisions to strengthen its defense and security.
"Ukraine’s security cannot be separated from Europe’s security. We are putting our money where our mouth is," Costa stressed, promising to continue working on strengthening Europe.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who was present at the debates, added that Europe must take greater control over its defense, as the "range of threats that we face is getting broader by the day." She reminded the audience of the new ReArm Europe plan, under which the EU must accelerate the production of defense products.
"Peace can no longer be taken for granted," von der Leyen emphasized.
Many deputies supported the European Commission’s new initiatives to strengthen the defense industry, reinforce the EU's borders, and continue supporting Ukraine. At the same time, some deputies stressed the need for a long-term common defense strategy that would address both current and future challenges, particularly on the EU's eastern borders.
EU rearmament
Earlier, the President of the European Commission announced that the European Union is beginning to implement a rearmament plan for Europe. The EU is launching the REARM Europe program, allocating €800 billion to strengthen security. According to her, this decision could serve as the foundation for the creation of a European Defense Union.
Future investments in military equipment and security infrastructure will contribute to the development of key sectors, including digitalization, transportation networks, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and secure communications.
Additionally, von der Leyen emphasized the importance of technologies such as satellite networks, autonomous vehicles, and robotics, which are crucial not only for defense but also for Europe’s competitiveness.
