Overview
- European Council conclusions endorse the Readiness 2030 plan, directing member states to finalize capability coalitions by end-2025, approve them in early 2026 and launch projects by mid-2026.
- Leaders prioritize counter‑UAS and air defence, with the European Drone Defense Initiative and Eastern Flank Watch slated to reach initial capacity by end‑2026, following condemnations of recent EU airspace violations.
- The plan targets at least 40% of defence acquisitions through joint procurement by late 2027 and outlines a proposed €131 billion defence‑and‑space envelope for 2028–2034.
- Member states are urged to fully mobilise SAFE and EDIP, strengthen the European Defence Agency with measures due by end‑2025, and leverage expanded European Investment Bank support.
- The EU reaffirms long-term backing for Ukraine, commits to address Kyiv’s 2026–27 financing needs, welcomes a 19th sanctions package on Russia, and stresses urgent delivery of air defence, anti‑drone systems and ammunition.