Chicago March 7, 2025
In a show of unity, European leaders gathered in Brussels on Thursday to pledge their support for increased defense spending and Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. The emergency meeting was sparked by concerns that Russia may target an EU country next, and that Europe can no longer rely on the US for protection.
“We have shown that the European Union is rising to the challenge, building the Europe of defence and standing with Ukraine shoulder to shoulder,” said Antonio Costa, chairman of the meeting.
The European Commission proposed giving EU governments more flexibility in their defense spending and allowing them to borrow up to 150 billion euros ($160 billion) to boost their militaries. All 27 EU member states agreed to urgently examine these proposals.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of Europe taking on the challenge of increased defense spending, saying, “Europe must take up this challenge, this arms race. And it must win it.”
