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EU Commissioner for Defense

Feature | EU summit

Why Volodymyr Zelenskyy can expect good news at the summit

After a difficult visit to Donald Trump in Washington, the Ukrainian president can hope for a great deal of encouragement in Brussels. In view of China's export controls on rare earths, a discussion on countermeasures is also expected at the summit. The 2040 climate target is also on the agenda.

By Stephan Israel, Janos Allenbach-Ammann and Lukas Knigge

News | European defense

Defense: Roadmap contains no cost information for flagship projects

The European Commission has adopted its roadmap for Europe’s defense capabilities through 2030. Four pan-European flagship projects will close key capability gaps. There is no cost information on the joint armaments effort.

By Stephan Israel

News | Defense industry

EDIP: Parliament and Council agree on defense industry program

After 18 months of negotiations, the European Parliament and member states have reached an agreement on the European Defense Industrial Program (EDIP). One provision in particular, intended to benefit European companies, was controversial.

By Stephan Israel

News | European defense

Defense: Why the Commission’s roadmap is facing headwinds

Kaja Kallas presents Europe’s defense roadmap today, but member states are already critical. At the NATO defense ministers’ meeting, Mark Rutte unveiled his own drone-defense initiative.

By Stephan Israel

Topic of the Day | EU summit

Informal summit: What to expect in Copenhagen

From drone defense to standoff weapons, the EU wants to push ahead with its defense readiness roadmap in Copenhagen. The proposal on Russian state bank funds is also on the agenda. The dispute over Israel sanctions could overshadow the leaders' meeting.

By Stephan Israel

Feature | Finland

Finland: Why the country is not afraid of Russia

Finland is defending Europe's border, the border between democracy and dictatorship, says Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen. He believes his country is well equipped in view of its comprehensive security concept and broad consensus vis-à-vis Russia.

By Stephan Israel

Feature | SOTEU

Incident over Poland: Von der Leyen pleads for drone wall

The Commission President wants to support Ukraine even more in the drone war with Russia. A violation of airspace over Poland gives her demand even more urgency. Von der Leyen announced a tougher stance towards Israel.

By Stephan Israel

News | SAFE

Armaments: EU Commission announces SAFE allocations

Nineteen Member States have applied for loans under the SAFE program. The Commission has now announced the sum that will be available to the various Member States. Poland is set to receive the most.

By Janos Allenbach-Ammann