On 21 May 2026, European Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius delivered a keynote speech at the 25th anniversary of the European Union Military Committee (EUMC), calling for a fundamental paradigm shift in European defence and urging the creation of a European Defence Union based on a coalition of the willing. Kubilius argued that the current strategic landscape demands moving "from reactive coordination to proactive readiness" and that the EUMC must be at the centre of this transformation.
The speech marks the first major policy intervention by Kubilius on the EUMC anniversary, with no prior coverage of the file in the last 180 days. The Commissioner framed the anniversary as a moment to reflect on the committee's achievements—including operations Althea, Atalanta, and EUMAM Ukraine—while stressing that history demands readiness, not nostalgia.
Kubilius explicitly endorsed the vision of the EUMC's first Chairman, General Gustav Hägglund, who had argued 25 years ago for a two-pillar NATO with European and American components and for a European Defence Union. "I subscribe to all your words and arguments," Kubilius said, urging the committee to follow Hägglund's advice. He described the current period as a "tectonic shift" from transatlantic collective defence to European collective defence of Europe, echoing Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent statement that established doctrines and institutions are "no longer fit for purpose."
Concrete proposals vs. declarative support
The speech contained few concrete policy details, measurable objectives, or numerical targets. Kubilius did not announce new funding, institutional structures, or deadlines. Instead, he offered declarative support for a European Defence Union and a coalition of the willing, calling for a paradigm change without specifying how it would be implemented. The Commissioner acknowledged that some may consider the ideas difficult to implement but expressed confidence they would be solved "perhaps even sooner than we think."
Policy orientation and foreign-policy stance
Kubilius's speech shifts the EU's defence policy orientation decisively toward greater European strategic autonomy, advocating a more assertive and demanding approach vis-a-vis the transatlantic relationship. By endorsing a two-pillar NATO and a European Defence Union, he signals a move away from reliance on the United States toward a more self-sufficient European defence posture. The tone is conciliatory toward NATO—repeatedly denying duplication—but assertive in calling for Europe to take greater responsibility.
Stakeholder impacts
The speech has implications for several stakeholders. EU member states, particularly those sceptical of deeper defence integration, may face pressure to join a coalition of the willing, potentially creating a two-speed Europe in defence. NATO allies, especially the United States, may view the proposal as a challenge to the alliance's unity, though Kubilius insists it strengthens the European pillar. The European defence industry could benefit from increased EU-funded production and procurement, as Kubilius highlighted "funds and production" as EU added value. EU military personnel and the EUMC itself stand to gain greater influence and resources as the committee is positioned at the centre of future defence developments.
Trade-offs and cleavages
The speech highlights a cleavage between European strategic autonomy and transatlantic solidarity. Kubilius's vision would increase EU powers in defence at the expense of national sovereignty for member states that opt in, while potentially reducing NATO's role as the primary security provider. The push for a European Defence Union also implies a trade-off between inclusivity (all 27 member states) and effectiveness (coalition of the willing), risking fragmentation. On the positive side, it could lead to more coherent European defence planning and reduced duplication. On the negative side, it may strain relations with non-participating member states and NATO partners.
Importance score: 75