In this Berlin Briefing, DW’s Michaela Küfner spoke with EU Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius and Alexandra von Nahmen on Europe’s response to Russian provocations and the urgency of military preparedness. Kubilius emphasized that defense is now a top priority for the EU and member states. After a period of capability planning, Europe is entering the “delivery stage” with contracts, production, and procurement. Intelligence reports indicate Russia could test NATO’s Article 5 within the next few years, making rapid action essential.
Von Nahmen noted a shift in the European mindset, particularly in eastern states and Germany, recognizing the real Russian threat. Recent drone incursions over Poland and Denmark revealed capability gaps, prompting initiatives like the European Drone Defense Initiative, combining radars and acoustic sensors. Europe’s defense readiness depends on EU programs, national political will, and swift execution of strategic investments. Germany is playing a leading role, setting an example with ambitious defense spending and industrial mobilization to strengthen European security. As highlighted in the Global Peace Index 2025, Germany remains among the world’s top ten arms exporters per capita, reflecting its growing role in Europe’s defense architecture even as public debate over military spending intensifies. Balancing deterrence, diplomacy, and its long-standing pacifist tradition, Berlin faces a defining test: can it lead a collective European security response without eroding the principles that anchor its foreign policy identity?
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