BRUSSELS (Chatnewstv.com) — The European Council on Thursday reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen the bloc’s collective defence and security capacities by 2030, pledging faster, broader, and more coordinated action in response to what it described as “an existential challenge” posed by Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The Council said it was determined to “decisively ramp up Europe’s defence readiness” and reduce dependence on external partners while ensuring full coherence with NATO.
“Europe must be better equipped to act autonomously, in a coordinated way, and with a 360° approach to immediate and future challenges,” the conclusions stated.
Following the presentation of the European Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030, EU leaders urged Member States to operationalise key defence priorities, with the European Defence Agency (EDA) providing support. Governments were asked to finalise “capability coalitions” in all priority areas by the end of the year, with concrete projects set to begin in early 2026.
The Council condemned violations of EU airspace and called for stronger protection of all borders — land, air, and maritime. In particular, it cited “immediate threats on the EU’s Eastern flank” and intensified hybrid attacks from Russia and Belarus, stressing the need to strengthen defences against drones, cyber threats, and energy infrastructure sabotage.
“Enhancing the resilience, security, and protection of critical infrastructure — including energy, digital, and undersea systems — is essential,” the statement added.
Leaders called for joint development and procurement of defence technologies, urging Member States to pool investments to achieve economies of scale and improve interoperability. The SAFE and EDIP funding instruments will be “fully mobilised” to boost Europe’s defence industrial base and competitiveness, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Council also highlighted cooperation with Ukraine, particularly in defence innovation and technology, as part of Europe’s broader security framework.
To monitor progress, an annual defence readiness report will be prepared by the EDA, supported by the European Commission and the High Representative, and presented to EU leaders.
The Council further urged the European Investment Bank (EIB) to expand financing for defence industries and startups and asked the Commission to present a roadmap for defence industry transformation.
Finally, EU leaders reiterated that a “stronger and more capable European Union in the field of security and defence” would enhance global and transatlantic security while complementing NATO.
“For NATO members, the Alliance remains the foundation of collective defence,” the conclusions reaffirmed.
The Council said it would continue to provide “strategic guidance” and review progress toward Europe’s 2030 defence readiness goals.
