This pressure did not arise suddenly. Russia’s invasion shattered the long-held belief that large-scale war on the European continent belonged firmly to history. At the same time, messages from the United States have grown increasingly explicit. Washington has made clear that Europe is expected to assume far greater responsibility for its own defense—financially, industrially, and operationally.
In late 2024, EU leaders approved a €90 billion loan package to support Ukraine, reaffirming commitment to Kyiv even as domestic fatigue becomes more visible. Soon after, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined defense initiatives aimed at strengthening deterrence by 2030. These policy moves were accompanied by unusually stark public warnings. Continue reading…