ISTANBUL 

Europe's commissioner for defense and space on Wednesday urged a "big bang" approach to strengthening the EU’s defense capabilities, citing “colossal” shortfalls in military material in comparison to Russia's war economy.

Andrius Kubilius made the remarks at the European Defense Agency’s annual conference in Brussels, where Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov also addressed critical funding challenges for his country’s military production.

Kubilius stressed the importance of a unified European strategy, which included increased defense production and acquisition efforts.

"We can no longer afford a fragmented and incremental approach," he said.

"We need a real, big bang approach. We also need a European approach."

Kubilius cited Galileo, Europe’s satellite navigation system, as a prime example of successful cooperation, urging for similar collective ambition in defense.

He emphasized pooling resources and prioritizing key projects such as air defense, cyber shields, and military mobility.

"Twenty years ago, the future looked bright—no Iron Curtain, peace, and democracy across the continent," he said.

"But now, we live in dangerous times. The storm clouds of war are gathering over Europe," he added.

Kubilius also pointed out Russia's alleged escalating aggression, including hybrid attacks, disinformation campaigns, and military aggression, claiming that Russian President Vladimir Putin's ambitions extend beyond Ukraine.

“Putin wants to turn back the clock, not 20 years, but 40 years or more, to the Soviet Union or the Russian Empire," he said, cautioning that Europe must prepare for potential confrontation.

Highlighting Russia’s war economy, he revealed that Moscow is allocating 40% of its federal budget—equivalent to 9% of its GDP—to defense and security, far surpassing the EU's average defense spending of 1.9% of GDP.

"We need to turbocharge defense spending," Kubilius stressed.

"Defending Ukraine means defending Europe," he said, adding that every missile and drone intercepted by Ukraine strengthens NATO and the EU.