Brussels: Europe's commissioner for defense and space, Andrius Kubilius, on Wednesday called for a "big bang" approach to bolster the EU's defense capabilities, highlighting significant shortfalls in military material compared to Russia's war economy. Kubilius made these remarks at the European Defense Agency's annual conference, where Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov also discussed critical funding challenges for Ukraine's military production.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kubilius emphasized the necessity of a unified European strategy, which would involve enhanced defense production and acquisition efforts. "We can no longer afford a fragmented and incremental approach," he stated. "We need a real, big bang approach. We also need a European approach." He pointed to Galileo, Europe's satellite navigation system, as a successful model of cooperation, urging Europe to adopt a similar collective ambition in defense.

Kubilius stressed the importance of pooling resources and prioritizing key projects, such as air defense, cyber shields, and military mobility. Reflecting on Europe's past, he remarked, "Twenty years ago, the future looked bright-no Iron Curtain, peace, and democracy across the continent. But now, we live in dangerous times. The storm clouds of war are gathering over Europe."

Russia's alleged escalating aggression, including hybrid attacks, disinformation campaigns, and military aggression, was also highlighted by Kubilius. He claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin's ambitions extend beyond Ukraine, stating, "Putin wants to turn back the clock, not 20 years, but 40 years or more, to the Soviet Union or the Russian Empire." He warned that Europe must be prepared for potential confrontation.

Kubilius revealed that Moscow is dedicating 40% of its federal budget to defense and security, equivalent to 9% of its GDP, which far exceeds the EU's average defense spending of 1.9% of GDP. He concluded with a strong call to action: "We need to turbocharge defense spending."