EU leaders eye stronger military capabilities at first-ever defense meeting

4/2/2025 12:59

European Union leaders held their first-ever defense meeting on Monday, focusing on strengthening military capabilities, hiking defense financing and reinforcing strategic partnerships.



European Council President Antonio Costa emphasized the need to address critical defense gaps, particularly in air and missile defense, ammunition production and military mobility, in coordination with NATO.



Speaking at a press conference, he underscored the urgency of strengthening the European defense industry to accelerate military equipment production.



According to Costa, defense spending among 23 EU members has increased by 30 percent between 2021 and 2024 with an average of 2 percent of GDP allocated to defense.



The European Investment Bank has expanded its support for defense financing, while discussions on additional funding, particularly for the next EU budget cycle starting in 2028, are ongoing.



NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also joined the meeting.