European Defence: Confronting Reality in a Changing World
The European Union finds itself at a pivotal moment in its approach to defence and security. At the Annual Conference of the European Defence Agency, held on January 22, 2025, in Brussels, High Representative/Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas delivered a compelling speech on the urgent need for a strategic shift in Europe's defence policy. Her address served as a call to action, emphasizing the necessity of a realistic approach to security challenges facing Europe. Kallas underscored that Russia poses an existential threat, having transitioned its economy to full war mode, with military spending exceeding one-third of its national budget. Her message was both sobering and aspirational: Europe must shed its illusions of safety and prepare for a future defined by collective strength, strategic investment, and unified action. In this piece, we explore the key themes of her speech and their implications for European security. The Reality Check: From Optimism to Urge...