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📍 Strasbourg, July 9, 2025 — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called on EU member states to directly procure weapons from Ukraine’s defense industry, which she described as “impressive” but currently operating at only 60% capacity. Her remarks came during a plenary debate at the European Parliament, following the June 26 European Council meeting.
🛡️ SAFE Initiative and Strategic Procurement Von der Leyen emphasized that under the €150 billion SAFE initiative, ten EU countries have already signaled intent to borrow funds for joint weapons procurement. She encouraged others to follow suit, noting that Ukraine offers high-quality, fast, and cost-effective defense products.
“For our Member States, it is top-notch quality, fast and cheap. For Ukraine, it is both crucial revenues and an opportunity to strengthen its defense industrial base,” she said.
⚠️ Urgency Amid Escalating Conflict The Commission President highlighted the intensifying threat from Russia, referencing its largest and deadliest missile and drone assault on Ukraine just a week prior.
“We cannot rely on others to protect Europe. The defense of Europe is our responsibility,” von der Leyen warned.
📈 Defense Readiness and Investment Plans Von der Leyen pointed to the release of the Readiness 2030 White Paper and the ReArm Europe Plan, which aim to boost EU defense investment to €800 billion by 2030. The European Council has tasked the Commission with drafting a Roadmap for Readiness by October, identifying production gaps across member states.
🗣️ Broader Strategic Context European Council President António Costa echoed the urgency, stating that without robust defense capabilities, peace remains an illusion. He described Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a “wake-up call” for Europe’s security posture.
For full details, see Ukrinform / Menafn.
