With growing challenges on the eastern borders and Europe’s increasing role in global security, it is becoming clear that strategic autonomy, unity within NATO, and increased military investments are key elements that will shape the future of European defense. The war in Ukraine has highlighted the urgency of these issues, as European countries, with the support of the U.S, must urgently reassess their position in the world of alliances. This was emphasized at the 2BS Forum during the discussion titled Allied World: Guiding Strategic Resilience in the Face of Uncertainties.

Werner Fasslabend, President of the Austrian Institute for European Security Policy (AIES), stressed the urgency of achieving European strategic autonomy: “If Europe does not develop its own defense capacities, it will face serious technological lag behind the U.S. and China, which is unacceptable in the long term,” he said.

Tomas Jermalavičius, Head of Studies at the International Centre for Defence and Security (ICDS), expressed concern over the pace of NATO’s development in confronting the Russian threat. “Although European countries have now begun to meet the 2% GDP defense spending target, it is not enough,” warned Jermalavičius. He noted that Estonia should increase defense spending to 5%, though he admitted this idea caused a shock in financial circles.

Jermalavičius also emphasized that NATO is slow in rebuilding its defense capabilities, including reserves of ammunition and military equipment. “If we continue at this pace, war with Russia is inevitable,” he said, pointing to the need for faster and more extensive deliveries of aid to Ukraine.

Tomáš Pojar, National Security Advisor to the Government of the Czech Republic, commented on the challenges facing NATO’s new Secretary General, Mark Rutte. Pojar highlighted that Rutte’s main task will be maintaining unity within the Alliance, especially in terms of supporting Ukraine. “Ironically, Vladimir Putin is helping to strengthen the alliance because his actions are uniting NATO,” Pojar stated.

However, he warned that insufficient investment in European defense over the past 30 years has weakened Europe’s position. “In the next 30 years, we must invest in our defense to ensure security and develop strategies that can sustain long-term resilience,” Pojar concluded.