Andrius Kubilius, EU Commissioner for Defence and Space, emphasizes the need for a coherent strategy against Russian aggression, urging the EU to update its approach. Underlining Romania's proactive role, Kubilius highlights its collaborative defense projects with Ukraine. The Commissioner also stresses the importance of utilizing space for defensive needs and developing a comprehensive "drone wall" across the EU's eastern borders to counter Russian drone threats. He advocates for enhanced EU-Ukraine cooperation on defense production, including SAFE credit utilization. Kubilius warns against accepting peace on Putin's terms, urging Europe to bolster its defense readiness with modern technologies and increased military support for Ukraine.
What defense projects has Andrius Kubilius initiated with Ukraine?
Andrius Kubilius has initiated joint defense projects with Ukraine under the SAFE credit program, aiming to enhance collaborative defense strategies. These projects include building a coordinated drone defense system to counter threats from hostile entities, leveraging Ukraine's expertise in drone innovation and technology.
How does Kubilius propose the EU deal with Russian aggression?
Kubilius proposes that the EU should update its strategic approach towards Russia by integrating technological advancements like drone defenses and laser systems. He emphasizes cooperation with Ukraine to enhance military capabilities and advocates for a new strategic framework to ensure stable peace in Europe and counter hybrid warfare threats.
What is the "drone wall" initiative mentioned by Andrius Kubilius?
The "drone wall" initiative, spearheaded by Kubilius, is a strategic defense plan to establish a three-layer system — aerial, terrestrial, and maritime — along the EU's eastern border. This initiative aims to detect and neutralize drone threats effectively, thereby safeguarding the region against potential incursions.
How does Andrius Kubilius view space in terms of defense?
Andrius Kubilius views space as a critical component of modern defense strategies. He indicates its growing role as a battlefield and advocates for employing space-based technologies to enhance defensive capabilities, including countering threats like satellite-targeting laser weapons, thereby securing EU's strategic interests.
What are Kubilius' views on Ukraine's integration in EU defense strategies?
Kubilius is a strong advocate for Ukraine's integration into EU defense strategies. He believes that working closely with Ukraine not only strengthens their own defenses but also leverages Ukraine's technological advancements to build a more robust collective security network, which includes coordinated defense manufacturing and technological collaborations.
Why does Kubilius emphasize technological innovation for defense?
Kubilius emphasizes technological innovation across defense industries to counter advanced threats and maintain security. He suggests integrating more innovations within the EU and Ukrainian defense sectors, which can offer tailored solutions like drones and electronic warfare systems to efficiently combat emerging security challenges.
What stance does Kubilius take on EU's military support to Ukraine?
Kubilius strongly supports increasing military aid to Ukraine as a foundational component of the "peace through strength" paradigm. He underscores that boosting military assistance signifies a compelling deterrence against Russian aggression and supports the notion that eco-region stability can be fortified through robust defense collaborations.
How does Andrius Kubilius view EU’s political readiness in defense?
Kubilius argues that, beyond modern weaponry, the EU needs strong political will to defend itself effectively against Russian hybrid warfare tactics. He insists that political readiness is crucial and aligns with defense innovation to ensure that the EU is not only strategically prepared but also unified in preventing external aggression.
