Kaja Kallas urged the EU to boost defence spending to prepare for potential challenges from an aggressive Russia.

Disparity in Defence Spending

In 2024, EU countries spent an average of 1.9% of GDP on defence, while Russia allocated 9%, said Kallas.

She warned that Russia could test EU defence readiness within three to five years, based on intelligence reports from member states.

Russia produces more weapons in three months than the EU collectively can in a year, Kallas emphasized.

The EU needs at least €500 billion for defence over the next decade. However, only €13 billion is budgeted for 2021–2027.

Calls for Collaboration and Preparedness

Kallas stressed the need for private and public investments, urging member states to allocate more than 1% of GDP to defence.

Lithuania plans to raise defence spending to 5–6% of GDP by 2026, responding to the regional threat posed by Russia.

Countries like Italy and Spain still fall short of NATO’s 2% defence spending target, highlighting gaps in European defence commitments.

“Ukraine is buying us time,” Kallas said, emphasizing the urgency of preparedness.

She rejected the idea of a unified European army, advocating for 27 capable national armies that can collaborate effectively.

Reducing Dependence on the US

French President Emmanuel Macron called for increased European defence spending to reduce reliance on US security.

He questioned Europe’s readiness if the US shifted military focus from the Mediterranean to the Pacific.

EU leaders echoed NATO’s call for citizens to accept sacrifices, including cuts to pensions and public services, to fund defence.

Mark Rutte, head of NATO, highlighted the accelerating risks to Europe, describing the situation as “not at peace but not at war.”

Strengthening Collective Defence Efforts

European Commissioner for Defence, Andrius Kubilius, called for a unified approach to improve Europe’s military readiness and capabilities.

He urged interoperable weapons systems, joint defence projects, and initiatives like air defence and cyber shields.

Kubilius emphasized that fragmented defence production is inefficient and undermines Europe’s preparedness for future threats.

Kallas concluded by affirming Europe’s need to shoulder more responsibility for its security, reducing dependence on external allies.