EU commissioner-designate calls for united defense strategy amid rising security threats

Andrius Kubilius, the European Union’s incoming commissioner for defense and space, sounded an urgent call for a united defense strategy as the bloc grapples with a growing list of security challenges.

Citing threats from conventional warfare, hybrid attacks, and the militarization of space, Kubilius stressed the need for a “European Defense Union” in remarks made Wednesday during his confirmation hearing before the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Industry, Research and Energy committees.

Kubilius warned that China and Russia are outpacing the EU in defense investments, highlighting persistent underinvestment and fragmentation within Europe’s defense equipment market.

The commissioner-designate called on EU lawmakers to support efforts to consolidate the bloc’s defense capabilities, stating that Europe needs to “spend more, spend better, spend together and spend European” to close the gap with its strategic rivals.

In aligning with NATO’s objectives, Kubilius emphasized that the EU would not compete with the alliance but would bolster its own capabilities to aid NATO’s deterrence and defense strategies. He pointed to the necessity of a single market for defense that can meet Europe’s security needs more efficiently.

Kubilius also underscored Europe’s position in the “space revolution,” pressing for autonomous access to space and increased support for flagship space programs.

The commissioner-designate suggested that the European Investment Bank’s lending policies should evolve to support defense and space initiatives, advocating for larger allocations in the next multiannual financial framework.