The war in Ukraine, lingering tensions with Russia, and shifting global alliances have forced EU leaders to confront an uncomfortable reality:
Europe’s defense capabilities aren’t where they need to be. And waiting to catch up could be dangerous.
Andrius Kubilius, the new European Commissioner for Defense, isn’t mincing words.
In an interview with AFP, the former Lithuanian Prime Minister called for a sweeping transformation in Europe’s approach to defense, according to Digi24.
Big Bang Approach
The gradual changes of the past, he argued, are no longer enough.
“We need a ‘big bang’ approach,” Kubilius said, warning that Russia poses a serious risk. According to intelligence reports, Moscow could be ready to launch an attack against an EU or NATO country before 2030.
Kubilius pointed out that Europe must prepare now, not later. “We can’t ask Putin to delay his plans until we’re ready,” he said.
The numbers illustrate the challenge. NATO estimates that Europe will need an additional 49 brigades, 1,500 tanks, and 1,000 artillery units to meet security demands by 2044.
But Kubilius stressed that these upgrades must happen much sooner — by the end of this decade.
European countries have already increased defense spending since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. But Kubilius believes current efforts fall far short of what’s needed.
The commissioner also dismissed suggestions that renewed U.S. pressure, such as a potential second Trump presidency, might drive Europe to act faster. “This isn’t about Trump,” he said. “It’s about Putin.”
One of Kubilius’s key concerns is whether European leaders have the political will to make tough decisions.
Building new military capacity requires money, focus, and long-term commitment. Delays could leave Europe exposed to future aggression.
