EU Leaders Back Historic $800 Billion Defense Initiative

European Union commits to bolstering defense autonomy and addressing existential threats posed by Russia.

EU leaders approved the 'ReArm Europe' plan, allocating up to $800 billion to strengthen European defense over the next five years.
The initiative includes measures such as easing budget rules for military spending, offering $150 billion in loans, and reallocating $350 billion from underutilized structural funds.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of European-made defense equipment and opened discussions on nuclear deterrence cooperation.
Germany signaled a major policy shift, committing to increased military spending and constitutional changes to support defense investments.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received renewed support from EU leaders, with pledges for military aid and discussions on long-term security guarantees.