Czech minister warns of up to 100 suspicious incidents linked to Russian attacks

In light of escalating tensions due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Andrius Kubilius, the EU's first defense and space commissioner, is advocating for a significant increase in the EU's defense budget. He has proposed that the forthcoming seven-year budget should allocate nearly €100 billion for defense, which would rise from the current allocation of only €10 billion out of a total budget exceeding €1 trillion. This call for an expansive defense budget reflects the shifting priorities of the EU, which is grappling with a growing need for enhanced military readiness and intergovernmental cooperation in the face of potential Russian aggression. Currently, the EU imposes strict budgetary rules, limiting member countries to a deficit of no more than 3% of GDP and public debt of no more than 60% of GDP. Given these constraints, nations such as Greece, Poland, and Italy are advocating for defense expenditure to be exempted from these calculations. Kubilius himself acknowledges the challenges in securing the necessary funding but emphasizes that without this funding, defense strategies will remain theoretical. His efforts point toward a need for flexibility in spending, especially in a crisis such as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In addition to funding, Kubilius is focused on coordinating Europe's fragmented defense industry to ensure more cohesive military efforts among EU member states. Disagreements have arisen regarding the level of access non-EU companies should have to the defense budget. Countries like France are advocating for strict restrictions favoring European firms, while nations including Poland, the Netherlands, and Germany prefer a more open approach to procurement to enhance overall defense capabilities. The enhanced stance on defense refers not only to traditional military expenditures but extends to combating hybrid threats emanating from Russia. The Czech foreign minister recently noted that about 100 suspicious incidents this year could be linked to Russian activities within Europe, highlighting the range of Russian tactics aimed at destabilizing EU member states. Kubilius' proposals come against a backdrop of continuous Russian military actions in Ukraine, particularly in Kherson Oblast, where recent attacks have resulted in injuries and damage to civilian infrastructure. This situation exemplifies the broader implications of Russia's aggressive policies in Europe and necessitates a coordinated and robust defense response from the EU.