According to information published by Politico, the European Union is considering a significant increase in defense spending for its next seven-year budget.
It is expected that defense expenditures could reach €100 billion, a substantial rise compared to current spending. In the current EU budget, which exceeds €1 trillion, only €10 billion is allocated to defense. This increase reflects the EU’s growing concern about current geopolitical challenges and security threats.
EU Commissioner for Defense and Space, Andrius Kubilius, called the proposed target “ambitious” and emphasized that such efforts are essential for ensuring security and stability on the European continent. He stressed that a substantial increase in the defense budget is a logical step in light of the growing threats from external forces.
The rise in defense spending also reflects the EU’s desire for greater strategic autonomy in defense matters. Given the escalating threats, such as the ongoing military conflict in Ukraine, as well as increasing competition with other global powers, the EU sees it as necessary to enhance its military readiness. Analysts believe this will also help strengthen internal security and improve the EU’s ability to respond to potential crises and threats.
The increase in defense spending is expected to be an important part of the upcoming budget, which will be discussed in the coming months. Experts believe this is a step towards strengthening unity within the EU and enhancing its role on the global stage in terms of security.