Von der Leyen proposes biannual assessment of EU nations’ defense spending.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled a new initiative to conduct biannual reviews of defense investments by EU member states. This initiative aims to bolster Europe’s military capabilities amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and increasing calls for reduced dependence on U.S. security guarantees. At an upcoming informal summit in Copenhagen, EU leaders will identify defense capability gaps and develop strategic roadmaps extending through 2030, with progress evaluated every six months. Von der Leyen stressed the importance of setting measurable targets for accountability.

This initiative reflects a broader evolution in the EU’s defense posture, highlighted by the recent commitment of €150 billion from the European Commission’s loans-for-arms program. Von der Leyen’s announcements occurred during her tour of Eastern EU border states, where she emphasized support for Ukraine and assessed regional security requirements. She also broached the topic of establishing a future EU military presence in post-conflict Ukraine.

In a separate development, a flotilla of humanitarian ships, including prominent activists like Greta Thunberg, has set sail from Spain to deliver aid to Gaza. This mission aims to protest European governments’ inaction in pressuring Israel regarding the humanitarian crisis. Previous attempts to deliver aid have been thwarted by the Israeli military, and tensions continue to escalate as attacks on Gaza increase.

Both of these initiatives underscore the EU’s evolving role in international relations and humanitarian efforts, as it seeks to enhance security measures while responding to pressing humanitarian challenges.