European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen has stated that Europe is not currently facing an imminent threat of war but has emphasized the necessity for the continent to develop new weaponry and enhance its military capabilities over the next five years.
Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the European Union (EU) Defense and Security summit in Brussels on Wednesday, the chief asserted the importance of being prepared for potential armed conflict.
Von der Leyen clarified, “There may not be an immediate threat of war, but it’s not impossible. We need to be ready for that possibility.”
She also mentioned that preparing for potential conflict should include reforming and restructuring the armed forces of EU member states.
Furthermore, she outlined the EU‘s need to focus on developing and producing next-generation combat capabilities to ensure success on the battlefield. This involves accelerating Europe’s military-industrial capabilities in the coming five years.
“Europe must spend more, spend better, and spend within Europe,” von der Leyen stated, highlighting a strategic shift towards enhancing the continent’s defense autonomy.
