Overview

• The European Commission has proposed an unprecedented €800 billion defense investment plan to achieve autonomy by 2030, citing Russian threats and reduced U.S. reliability.
• France has introduced a new investment product allowing citizens to contribute to defense funding with a minimum of €500, aiming to raise €450 million initially.
• EU leaders are meeting to finalize legislative proposals focusing on prioritizing European-made defense equipment and strengthening local industries.
• Intelligence reports warn of potential Russian attempts to test NATO's Article 5 by 2030, adding urgency to the EU's defense strategy.
• French defense companies estimate a need for €5 billion in new capital to scale production, with public and private funding being mobilized.