EU Strengthens Defense Ties with Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

European Union lawmakers have taken a significant step in enhancing the bloc’s defense capabilities by voting to deepen ties with Ukraine. On March 12, 2024, the European Parliament approved a defense integration program worth €1.5 billion ($1.7 billion) aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s military industry amidst ongoing conflict and geopolitical tensions. The vote concluded with 457 in favor, 148 against, and 33 abstentions.

The program allocates €300 million ($345 million) specifically for the Ukraine Support Instrument. Raphaël Glucksmann, a prominent EU lawmaker from France’s S&D party, emphasized the program’s significance, stating it would help build “a more resilient and sovereign Europe.” He pointed out that partnering with Ukraine is essential for effectively protecting democratic values across the continent.

In addressing the lawmakers, EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius asserted the necessity of supporting Ukraine’s defense industry. He remarked, “Ukraine’s defense industry needs us, but we need Ukraine’s defense innovations even more.” By granting Ukrainian access to the EU’s Defence Investment Program, the initiative aims to facilitate the procurement of defense equipment tailored for Ukraine, aligning both parties’ military needs.

The wartime context has prompted a substantial increase in EU defense spending, projected to reach approximately €392 billion (over $450 billion) this year. This figure is nearly double the spending from four years ago, prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Moreover, the European Commission anticipates that defense expenditures across the EU could total about €3.4 trillion ($4 trillion) over the next decade.

Kubilius highlighted the broader implications of the defense program, stating, “We shall be powerful geopolitically if we shall be strong in our defense, and we shall be strong in defense if we shall be strong in our defense industry.” He advocated for EU member states to prioritize purchasing military equipment from within the bloc to foster self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on external suppliers.

As part of this initiative, EU-based defense companies will be able to apply for tax incentives and financial support for projects deemed of common interest. Kubilius noted that collaboration with Ukrainian firms is integral to injecting innovative military solutions into the European defense landscape. He mentioned initiatives such as the Eastern Flank Watch and the Drone Defense Initiative, which require a unified effort to protect Europe collectively.

In a related development, the European Commission has recently introduced a new defense package designed to enhance the rapid deployment of military resources across Europe. This includes the EU Defense Industry Transformation Roadmap, aimed at streamlining regulations and boosting domestic production of critical defense materials such as weapons and vehicles.

Prior to the parliamentary vote, Kubilius reflected on historical injustices, stating that strong defense policies are crucial to prevent more powerful nations from encroaching on weaker states. He drew from Lithuania’s past experiences under Soviet occupation, asserting that a robust European defense industry is essential for ensuring peace and security within the region.

The EU’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities in collaboration with Ukraine marks a pivotal moment in the bloc’s evolution, shifting from its origins as a trading entity to becoming a more formidable geopolitical actor in response to contemporary challenges.