Loading...
Loading...
European Union leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, proposed new measures to strengthen the bloc's independent military and security capabilities, calling for bringing the EU's mutual defense clause 'to life'. Several initiatives were discussed, such as a 'Board of Peace', offensive cyber capabilities, and a new security pact with Australia. However, these plans faced obstacles, including a faltering fighter jet deal and Hungary blocking new EU sanctions against Russia.
The United States is pushing its European allies within NATO to take greater responsibility for their own defense and military spending. This has fueled a broad European debate on building more independent capabilities, including discussions about a European nuclear deterrent. While NATO's chief affirmed U.S. commitment, European officials are openly questioning long-term U.S. security guarantees, with proposals for a more Europe-led NATO structure and reports the U.S. may transfer some command roles to European states. In parallel, EU countries finalized a 90 billion euro loan for Ukraine, funded by joint EU debt, to support its finances until at least 2027. At the Munich Security Conference, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas outlined proposals for potential peace with Russia, calling for Russian concessions like limiting its army size. She rejected the idea of a separate European army but suggested discussions on European nuclear deterrence. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated Russia has no plans to attack Europe or NATO but is prepared to retaliate if struck first, while also discussing work on a new Eurasian security architecture. The EU unveiled its 20th package of sanctions against Russia, with Lithuania urging more ambitious measures.
2 topics | 65 sources
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for the EU to bring its mutual defense clause 'to life' and build a more independent European defense capability. She and other EU officials argue for a Europe that can stand stronger on its own in security matters. This push comes amid discussions about the future of U.S. security guarantees for Europe and reports that some U.S. politicians have questioned whether America would defend Baltic states in a conflict. EU leaders, including Portugal's António Costa, say strengthening EU defense is key to preserving the transatlantic relationship with the United States.
The European Union has announced a new plan to protect against dangerous drones. As part of this initiative, the EU is launching a drone plan that includes a hackathon to support Lithuania's security needs.
12 topics | 148 sources
Feb 7 — Feb 26
European Union announces new sanctions package against RussiaThe European Union has unveiled its 20th package of sanctions against Russia. The new measures are part of the ongoing international response to Russia's war in Ukraine. Lithuania is among the countries urging the EU to make the sanctions package more ambitious. Separately, a Russian intelligence officer who had been sanctioned by both the US and the EU was recently shot outside his home in Moscow.
Feb 10
Russia says it will not attack Europe but is building military and sending banned officials to AfricaRussian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia has no plans to attack Europe or NATO, but is prepared to retaliate if struck first. He also discussed work on creating a new security architecture for Eurasia. Separately, Estonia claims Russia is planning a military buildup to shift power in Europe, and reports indicate Russia is sending diplomats and intelligence officers who were banned from Europe to postings in Africa.