European leaders are set to approve an ambitious €800 billion defense spending plan at a summit in Brussels, driven by growing concerns over security and support for Ukraine.
The plan, championed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to make Europe more self-reliant in defense and reduce strategic dependencies, especially after the US halted military aid to Ukraine.
Arriving at the summit, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Europe’s support, emphasizing unity in the face of adversity.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen urged increased spending on defense and deterrence, stressing the importance of continued support for Ukraine.
However, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán could complicate matters, threatening to veto the EU text on Ukraine, which opposes Donald Trump’s peace deal with Putin.
Despite this, the EU’s proposal includes €150 billion in loans, along with greater flexibility in fiscal rules, which could unlock €650 billion for defense projects.
Germany, traditionally cautious about defense spending, has signaled a shift, with Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz supporting increased defense budgets.
Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stressed the need for coordinated European defense, highlighting that Russia will ultimately lose the arms race.
While Hungary’s opposition looms large, EU officials hope to sidestep roadblocks with a “coalition of the willing,” ensuring progress on defense and Ukraine’s military aid. Despite challenges, the summit marks a pivotal moment in Europe’s defense strategy.
