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Ouassima Oualkadi is an international journalism student with a focus on European Union politics and the Middle East. As a passionate beginner, she brings curiosity, determination, and a growing global perspective to her reporting. Ouassima is eager to expand her skills, explore complex political narratives, and contribute thoughtful, well-researched journalism to a wider audience.

Von der Leyen demands EU leaders to accelerate defence spending and strengthen industry 

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is pushing EU leaders to sharply raise defence spending in light of the security risks facing Europe.

In a letter to heads of state, she argues Europe must “be in charge of its own deterrence and defence,” warning that the current geopolitical climate is among the most fraught in decades.

Von der Leyen unveiled an ambitious plan to “ReArm Europe” which would cost around €150 billion in loans to member states to invest in key military capabilities like air/missile defence, artillery, drones, and anti‑drone systems. She also suggested redirecting EU budget funds towards defence and mobilising private capital. 

According to the letter we could witness the beginning of the end of this conflict by the end of 2026. However Von der Leyden stressed being fully prepared for both continued war and long-term rebuilding.

“The scale of Ukraine’s financing deficit is significant. According to preliminary forecasts by the International Monetary Fund – provided that the war ends at the end of 2026 and taking into account all the support promised by the EU, member states and international partners – Ukraine will still face a huge shortfall that cannot be overcome without attracting new financing,” Von Der Leyen wrote to the EU leader 

The plan is expected to be agreed on during the next European Council meeting, with von der Leyen urging immediate action.

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