EU Unveils €800 Billion 'ReArm Europe' Defense Plan

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday revealed an €800 billion defense initiative designed to strengthen Europe's military capabilities and support Ukraine.

Speaking before a European Council meeting, von der Leyen introduced the "ReArm Europe Plan," which proposes higher national defense spending, joint procurement, and increased military aid for Ukraine. "We are living in the most momentous and dangerous of times," she said, emphasizing the need for Europe to take responsibility for its security.

The plan enables member states to expand defense budgets by activating the national escape clause under the Stability and Growth Pact, allowing up to €650 billion in additional spending over four years without breaching EU fiscal rules. Von der Leyen also announced a €150 billion loan program to support defense infrastructure, describing it as a way to "spend better and spend together."

The initiative comes amid growing uncertainty over U.S. support for Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump recently questioned ongoing aid, while Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for lacking gratitude. Trump later paused military assistance to Ukraine, increasing pressure on European nations to fill the gap.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for stronger European defense cooperation, pledging to raise the U.K.'s defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027. He urged European nations to form a "coalition of the willing" to ensure continued support for Ukraine.

Von der Leyen emphasized that the plan would allow European countries to "massively step up" the delivery of military equipment to Ukraine, including missile defense systems and anti-drone technology.

The proposal will be discussed during Thursday’s Brussels summit, where EU leaders will address long-term strategies for European security in light of the potential reduction in U.S. support. "This is Europe's moment, and we must live up to it," von der Leyen said.