The European Union has appointed its first-ever Defense Commissioner, Andrius Kubilius, a move that signals the bloc’s growing focus on defense capabilities in light of Russia’s attack of Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the appointment on Tuesday, emphasizing that Kubilius will be tasked with developing the European defense union and boosting investment in military capacity, Politico reports.
Kubilius, a former Lithuanian Prime Minister known for his strong support of Ukraine and criticism of Russian aggression, faces the challenge of carving out a meaningful role in an area traditionally controlled by individual member states. His responsibilities will include organizing the EU’s fragmented defense industry and assisting member countries in rearming while continuing to support Ukraine.
Von der Leyen clarified that member states will retain control over troop composition, missions, and deployment.
Key tasks for Kubilius include drafting a paper on the future of European defense within 100 days, developing concepts for a European air defense shield and cyber defense programs, and working on military mobility corridors. He will also need to address the estimated €500 billion in EU defense needs over the next decade, though funding sources remain unclear.
“For those who are arguing that Ukraine should agree with the peace conditions of [Russian leader Vladimir] Putin, I would suggest to look into the possibility to offer to Putin territory of their own country,” he said in the European Parliament in July, adding: “Peace can be achieved only if Ukraine is winning and its territorial sovereignty is defended, and that can be done only with our much longer support.“
Kubilius joins a group of strong anti-Kremlin voices in key EU positions, including Kaja Kallas as the EU’s top diplomat. His appointment reflects the EU’s shifting perspective on defense in response to ongoing geopolitical challenges, particularly the Russian war against Ukraine.
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