EU security panel: Russia poses block’s most serious threat in decades

The European Union is facing its most serious national security threat since the Second World War, with Russia identified as the primary danger, according to a new report by the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE).

The committee’s assessment argues that the EU’s security and defence partnerships (SDPs) — designed to strengthen cooperation with key bilateral partners — are now essential for enabling the bloc to respond effectively to current and emerging threats and to reinforce its role as a global strategic actor. MEPs describe these partnerships as “a necessity rather than an option,” stressing that they enhance Europe’s strategic autonomy while remaining fully compatible with NATO and anchored in multilateral cooperation.

SEDE warns that Europe is confronted with its gravest security environment in decades, driven primarily by Russia’s war against Ukraine but compounded by hybrid threats, terrorism, cyberattacks, risks to critical infrastructure, and challenges linked to climate change. Russia, supported by Iran, North Korea and Belarus, is identified as the principal threat to European security. China is labelled a strategic competitor, with MEPs arguing that Beijing’s support for Moscow requires the EU to reassess economic ties and strengthen resilience.

The report calls for deeper EU–NATO coordination, reaffirming NATO as the cornerstone of Europe’s defence while urging the development of a stronger EU defence pillar capable of acting autonomously when required. MEPs highlight the need for interoperable European military capabilities, joint procurement, industrial cooperation, standardisation and alignment with NATO planning to improve readiness and avoid duplication.

The committee also welcomes the expansion of SDPs with like-minded partners, including NATO allies such as Norway, the United Kingdom and Canada, as well as partners in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Ukraine is identified as a strategic priority, with MEPs calling for sustained military, industrial and political backing for Kyiv, the provision of security guarantees, and the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction in accordance with international law. The report proposes formalising a strategic partnership with Ukraine.

The text further calls for structured implementation, monitoring and parliamentary oversight of SDPs, the inclusion of additional partners, and the integration of SDP countries into major EU defence initiatives, arguing that the current geopolitical environment demands stronger and more coherent long-term cooperation.

“Europe’s security can no longer be taken for granted. In any scenario, the most important task is for the EU to build its own strength. We need a more strategic and coordinated approach. This is why security and defence partnerships are essential. Threats do not stop at borders, and the EU cannot act alone. The report sends a clear message: real strategic autonomy depends on partnerships that deliver concrete capabilities, interoperability, and resilience. Support for Ukraine is the bedrock of EU defence. We propose to formalise a strategic partnership with Ukraine. The report calls for sustained, long-term support for Ukraine and deeper cooperation, including in defence industry and innovation. At the same time, the EU–NATO partnership remains the cornerstone of European defence. The report reinforces this and calls for closer and practical cooperation. It also looks ahead. The report supports strengthening current and tailoring new partnerships. We deliberately took a broad and strategic approach to keep the framework flexible and future-proof. This report is a concrete contribution to the overhaul of EU defence policy. It gives direction for action, not just declarations. This means the EU must take greater responsibility for its own defence. Member states need to invest more and close critical capability gaps. But more spending alone is not enough, we need allies and partners globally,” said rapporteur Michal Szczerba (EPP, Poland) after the vote.

The report was adopted with 25 votes in favour, 6 against and 1 abstention.

By Tamilla Hasanova