Europe must act fast to strengthen defenses against serious threats

On November 27, 2024, in a critical address ahead of the European Parliament vote, Ursula von der Leyen, the chief of the European Union, emphasized that Europe faces numerous pressing challenges that need immediate action. Highlighting threats from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, as well as economic pressures from China and the potential return of Donald Trump to power, von der Leyen stressed the urgent need for increased defense spending. She noted that Europe currently spends only 1.9% of its GDP on defense compared to Russia's staggering 9%, prompting a call for massive budget boosts to ensure European sovereignty and security. The recent political landscape within the EU has also played a part in shaping von der Leyen's strategy. The new 27-member commission was approved largely due to a coalition among right, centrist, and center-left groups that prepared to support her leadership for a second term. This decisive backing comes after a series of negotiations to clear nominee candidates individually for the first time in decades, which indicates a significant shift in parliamentary dynamics that enhances von der Leyen's influence in leading the EU. Estonia's former Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has been appointed the EU's chief diplomat, while Lithuania's Andrius Kubilius will focus on defense reevaluation efforts, signaling a clear priority shift towards enhancing military readiness in the bloc. A broader economic strategy is equally critical as von der Leyen pointed out the looming tariff threats from a potential US administration under Donald Trump, which could pressure the EU into aligning more closely with American trade demands. This shift in the geopolitical environment emphasizes the need for a more robust and operational EU executive, a change that has been marked by von der Leyen’s hands-on leadership style and her ability to navigate complex diplomatic waters over the past five years. Outgoing commissioner for home affairs, Ylva Johansson, further expressed that the EU must adapt to a dramatically altered geopolitical landscape since 2019 and acknowledged the commission's increased operational capacity. The commission’s focus on joint defense spending and strategic economic recovery initiatives, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores a proactive approach necessary for the EU’s survival in a multipolar world where competitive threats are ever-increasing.