BRUSSELS — The European Union is set to unveil an ambitious defense strategy aimed at enhancing its military capabilities, in light of increasing threats from Russia and a shift in U.S. foreign policy.

A draft of the proposal, known as the White Paper on defense, outlines a comprehensive approach to rearming the bloc and ensuring support for Ukraine as it continues to face Russian military aggression.

The draft emphasizes that rebuilding European defense requires substantial investment sustained over an extended period.

It is prepared by EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, with plans for presentation to EU leaders in the coming days.

Key aspects of the proposed policy include prioritizing the production of weapons within EU member states and collaborating with allied non-EU countries, encouraging joint purchases of military equipment, easing financing for defense projects, and addressing specific capability gaps in areas such as air defense and military mobility.

The initiative seeks to reduce bureaucratic obstacles to defense-related investments.

The proposal highlights Russia's actions as a primary catalyst for the new strategy, noting that it poses an existential threat to the EU. It emphasizes the necessity of deterring potential armed aggression from Russia, referencing the country’s history of invading neighboring states and its current expansionist policies.

The document asserts that a strong military presence is crucial for Ukraine to negotiate peace from a position of strength, particularly in light of a perceived reduction in U.S. support.

Among the measures outlined to assist Ukraine are the provision of 1.5 million artillery shells, advanced air defense systems, ongoing training for Ukrainian troops, and integration of Ukraine into EU military financing mechanisms.

Furthermore, the proposal includes expanding military mobility corridors to incorporate Ukraine, reflecting an intent to enhance logistical support.

The draft also addresses the evolving dynamics of NATO, stating that while NATO continues to be the cornerstone of collective defense in Europe, the EU cannot rely solely on U.S. security guarantees.

It calls for increased European investment in defense capabilities, acknowledging the risks associated with U.S. reconsideration of its military commitments.

Proposed steps for implementation include revising fiscal rules to facilitate increased defense spending, establishing collaborative frameworks for 35 percent of defense expenditures, approving a €1.5 billion European Defense Industry Programme, and coordinating critical capability areas with NATO.

The document ensures that member states retain control over their armed forces and strategic decisions, while also underscoring the necessity for enhanced collaboration to address acute defense capability shortfalls across the bloc.

It identifies seven priority investment areas: air and missile defense systems, artillery, munitions, drone technologies, military mobility, innovative technologies including AI and cyber capabilities, and critical infrastructure protection.

As the EU prepares to formalize this defense strategy, it reflects a significant shift in military policy, driven by the urgent need to respond to contemporary security challenges in Europe.