EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday that new plans to strengthen Europe’s defence industry and enhance military capabilities could mobilise close to €800 billion (approximately $841.4 billion).
n her remarks, von der Leyen outlined proposals designed to provide member states with increased fiscal space for defence investments. Key elements of the plan include offering €150 billion in loans to support these investments and actively seeking to attract additional private capital to bolster defence projects across the bloc.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at reinforcing Europe’s strategic autonomy amid evolving global security challenges. By expanding financial support and leveraging both public and private funding, the EU intends to enable member states to modernise their military capabilities and reduce dependency on external sources for critical defence technology.
“Ensuring that our member states have the financial tools to invest in modernising their armed forces is essential for the security and stability of Europe,” von der Leyen said. The proposed measures are intended to accelerate defence projects and maintain a robust European defence industry capable of addressing emerging threats.
The proposal comes at a time when geopolitical tensions and an uncertain security landscape are prompting EU leaders to re-examine defence spending and strategic priorities. Further discussions and negotiations among member states and EU institutions will determine the specific mechanisms for mobilising the estimated €800 billion.
Read next
11:18
EU-CENTRAL ASIA
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, will chair the 20th EU-Central Asia Ministerial meeting hosted this year by Turkmenistan, in Ashgabat, on 4 March.
09:40
The President of the European Council, António Costa will travel to Moldova and Egypt from 3 to 4 March 2025 to engage in high-level discussions on European security, support for Moldova, and the current situation in Gaza.
08:55
Canada, Mexico and the European Union are pushing back against the U.S. decision to increase tariffs on goods. With the March 4 deadline approaching, concerns over supply chain disruptions, rising consumer prices, and a potential global trade war are escalating.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment