EU defense summit gets member states towards same direction
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European leaders met in Brussels on Thursday, March 6th, for the defense summit to discuss the “Rearm Europe” plan presented this week by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. EU leaders approved a measure aimed at easing budgetary restrictions so that european countries can increase defense spending.
EU members call for more tools to invest in defense
The measure was highly anticipated, especially now that U.S. — under the Trump administration — wants to play an increasingly marginal role in European affairs, especially in matters related to defense. The European Commission has estimated that approximately 650 billion euros could be allocated, and many member states have urged EU’s executive branch to create additional tools to fund European defense.
The 150 billion euro loan
Meanwhile, the European Commission has announced that 150 billion euros in loans will be available for European governments to invest in their militaries. The 27 member states, in a joint statement, have called on their ministers to review the proposals made by EU as soon as possible.
Orbán opts out from joint statement on Ukraine
European leaders also signed an additional joint statement expressing full military support and the need to secure guarantees for Ukraine's security. However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was the only representative of the member states to opt out. European Council President António Costa commented on the decision by stating that Europe respects Hungary's choice, which reflects a different strategic approach on Ukraine’s conflict.
EU members call for more tools to invest in defense
The measure was highly anticipated, especially now that U.S. — under the Trump administration — wants to play an increasingly marginal role in European affairs, especially in matters related to defense. The European Commission has estimated that approximately 650 billion euros could be allocated, and many member states have urged EU’s executive branch to create additional tools to fund European defense.
The 150 billion euro loan
Meanwhile, the European Commission has announced that 150 billion euros in loans will be available for European governments to invest in their militaries. The 27 member states, in a joint statement, have called on their ministers to review the proposals made by EU as soon as possible.
Orbán opts out from joint statement on Ukraine
European leaders also signed an additional joint statement expressing full military support and the need to secure guarantees for Ukraine's security. However, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was the only representative of the member states to opt out. European Council President António Costa commented on the decision by stating that Europe respects Hungary's choice, which reflects a different strategic approach on Ukraine’s conflict.