European Arms Imports Surge Amid Ukraine Conflict and Global Tensions
European nations nearly double their arms imports in response to the Ukraine war and threats from Russia, aiming to reduce reliance on the US and boost their defense industries.
- European arms imports increased by 94% from 2019 to 2023, driven by the conflict in Ukraine and the desire to lessen dependency on the US.
- Ukraine has become the world's fourth largest arms importer, with Europe's arms imports primarily coming from the US.
- France surpasses Russia to become the world's second largest arms exporter, with a significant increase in exports to India, Qatar, and Egypt.
- Global arms exports see the US extending its lead, while Russian exports plummet by 53% amid sanctions and declining demand from traditional buyers like China and India.
- Efforts to strengthen the European defense industry are underway, with aims to make 50% of military acquisitions within the EU by 2030.
RFI 
CNA 
Al Jazeera 
EL PAÍS 
The Japan Times 
Ukrinform 
Deutsche Welle 
South China Morning Post 
Newsweek 