Overview

• Andrius Kubilius, former Prime Minister of Lithuania, has been named the EU's first defense commissioner.
• Kubilius' role will involve organizing the EU's fragmented defense industry and boosting investment in military capacity.
• A key part of his mission is to support Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression by ensuring continued arms shipments.
• Kubilius faces significant challenges, including limited legal authority and the need to secure more funding for defense initiatives.
• The new post was created in response to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, reflecting a shift in the EU's defense strategy.