24.03.2025 US
1126 day since the barbaric invasion of Ukraine

EU Mobilizes €800 Billion for Re-Armament: ReArm Europe Plan Launched

The European Commission has introduced ReArm Europe – a plan to increase military spending, provide loans, and attract private capital for defense needs.

Olga Demidenko
Ursula von der Leyen
Ursula von der Leyen, illustrative photo
Photo: wikipedia, CC BY 4.0

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the launch of the ReArm Europe initiative aimed at strengthening the EU's defense capabilities. The information was published on the official website of the European Commission.

The plan includes a significant increase in military spending, allocation of loans to member states for arms procurement, and mobilization of private capital.

Von der Leyen emphasized that Europe is entering an "era of rearmament" and must act swiftly.

According to the plan, the EU may allocate up to €150 billion in loans and activate the "relaxation clause" on budgetary restrictions, allowing EU countries to increase defense spending by 1.5% of GDP, creating a fiscal reserve of €650 billion.

Funding will be directed toward key areas such as air defense systems, artillery, missiles, drones, and ammunition.

This will not only strengthen Europe's defense capabilities but also enhance support for Ukraine.

Additionally, ReArm Europe envisions attracting private investments and using EU funds to finance defense projects.

The initiative reflects the EU's ambition for strategic autonomy and increased security amid growing threats.

The European Commission expects ReArm Europe to be a key step toward building a strong and independent European defense capability.

It was also revealed that the European Union approved the 16th package of sanctions against Russia, including restrictions on the "shadow fleet" and trade operations.

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