Europe is confronting a security reality it long hoped to avoid. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, blunt warnings from NATO leaders, and growing pressure from Washington have pushed the EU to reassess its defence readiness. Diplomacy and U.S. security guarantees once felt sufficient; today, they no longer do.
Brussels is accelerating military planning and spending, backing Ukraine with billions while launching initiatives aimed at strengthening deterrence by 2030. European defence budgets now exceed €300 billion, with more funds earmarked for joint procurement, infrastructure upgrades, and faster troop mobility across borders. Leaders warn the risk of conflict is no longer theoretical.
Public opinion, however, lags behind policy. Polls show most Europeans are unwilling to fight, even as fear of Russian aggression rises—especially in eastern member states. Countries closest to Russia are already preparing their populations through civil defence guides, drills, and border fortifications.
Behind the scenes, the EU is racing to overcome decades of underinvestment and fragmentation. The question facing Europe is no longer whether to act, but whether it can move fast enough.
