EU Defense Commissioner Warns Russia Could Target EU Country if Ukraine Support Falters

European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius warned that if the West fails to provide sufficient military support to Ukraine, Russia could seize the opportunity to target an EU country. Speaking before the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Security and Defense in Brussels, Kubilius emphasized the importance of understanding the nature of potential threats and preparing for possible Russian aggression against EU and NATO nations. Although he did not specify which country could be at risk, his comments underscored the necessity for readiness in facing such threats.

Kubilius highlighted that in the short term, Russia poses the most significant threat, while in the long term, China remains a growing concern, with the U.S. increasingly focusing its efforts on the Indo-Pacific region. As a result, the American military presence in Europe is unlikely to remain at its current scale. He also called for a shift in attitude regarding the development of European defense capabilities.

NATO's defense plans include increasing its military assets in Europe, with provisions for 49 additional brigades, 1,500 tanks, 1,000 artillery units, and thousands of vehicles. However, Kubilius noted that it remains to be seen whether European defense industries can meet these demands before 2030. The EU's new multi-annual budget, set to provide about 500 billion euros over the next decade, is expected to allocate more funds for defense.

Kubilius also expressed concern that the EU is currently losing the verbal battle with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been successful in promoting the narrative that Ukraine cannot win the war and must negotiate with Russia on its terms.

Meanwhile, in Malta, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign...