EU Boosts Defense Spending Amid Ukraine Crisis

Published on 4.5.25

  The recent developments in international relations have highlighted a significant shift in Europe's defense strategy, driven by concerns over security following the invasion of Ukraine. This pivot is evident in the EU's plan to mobilize up to 800 billion euros for rearmament, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warning of a "clear and present danger" on a scale not seen in decades. NATO's efforts to increase defense spending and burden sharing among its member states are also reflected in this move. Secretary-General Mark Rutte will urge European allies to do so at the upcoming meeting in The Hague, where the need for increased defense spending is underscored by the surge in German weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall's market capitalization to 55.7 billion euros. The proposed 150 billion euro loan for EU member states to buy arms is also expected to be discussed at the meeting, with European leaders agreeing not to ease sanctions on Russia and vowing to take additional measures against its "shadow fleet" of tankers used to smuggle crude oil.

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