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Von der Leyen Calls for Major Overhaul of European Defense Amid Russian Threat

European Commission President emphasizes the need for increased military spending and support for Ukraine at the GLOBSEC forum in Prague.

Overview

  • Ursula von der Leyen stresses the importance of rethinking Europe's security architecture in response to Russian aggression.
  • European defense spending has surged from EUR 200 billion to nearly EUR 300 billion since the start of the Ukraine war.
  • Von der Leyen proposes appointing a full-fledged defense commissioner to enhance coordination across the EU's defense industry.
  • Continued and predictable support for Ukraine is deemed crucial for European security by von der Leyen.
  • Some officials express concerns that current efforts may still fall short of Europe's defense needs.