In a recent report approved by 26 votes in favour, 6 against, and 1 abstention, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) stress the vital role of the EU’s security and defence partnerships (SDPs) in addressing emerging threats and enhancing the EU’s global influence. The report from the Security and Defence Committee emphasises that these partnerships are essential for responding to security challenges, supporting the EU’s strategic autonomy, and complementing NATO.
The EU faces its most significant security crisis since World War II, driven mainly by Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and compounded by hybrid threats, terrorism, cyberattacks, and climate-related risks. Russia, along with allies such as Iran, North Korea, and Belarus, is seen as the primary threat to European security. At the same time, China’s backing of Russia prompts the EU to reassess its economic relations and strengthen resilience against Beijing.
“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,” said rapporteur Michal Szczerba (EPP, Poland).
“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,” the rapporteur explained.
NATO remains the cornerstone of collective defence
MEPs stress the need for closer EU-NATO cooperation, reaffirming NATO as the cornerstone of collective defence while advocating for a stronger, autonomous EU defence pillar. They highlight the importance of interoperable military capabilities, joint procurement, and alignment with NATO to enhance readiness.
The report supports expanding Security and Defence Partnerships (SDPs) with like-minded EU partners, including NATO allies and other partners in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. It emphasises Ukraine as a strategic priority, calling for sustained military, industrial, and political support, security guarantees, and the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Finally, the document calls for structured implementation and oversight of SDPs, deeper cooperation with additional partners, and the inclusion of SDP partners in key EU defence initiatives, reflecting the need for stronger, coherent security and defence collaboration in the current geopolitical environment.
“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”, MEP Szczerba concluded.
The report will now be put to a vote in the European Parliament as a whole.
