The text prepared by the Security and Defense Committee states that the EU Security and Defense Partnerships (SDPs)which aims to strengthen joint security and defense efforts between the EU and key bilateral partners, are essential to effectively respond to current and future security threats and strengthen the Union’s role as a global strategic actor. Parliament believes that these partnerships are a necessity, not a choice, as they are based on multilateral cooperation and support the EU’s strategic autonomy while fully complementing NATO.
The text highlights that the EU is facing the most serious security situation since the Second World War, based mainly on Russia’s war against Ukraine, wider hybrid threats, terrorism, cyber-attacks and risks related to critical infrastructure, as well as risks related to climate change. Russia, backed by partners such as Iran, North Korea and Belarus, has been identified as the main threat to European security, while China has been described as a strategic rival. Its support for Russia forces the EU to re-evaluate economic relations and strengthen resilience against Beijing.
NATO remains the cornerstone of collective defense
MEPs also emphasize the need for closer cooperation between the EU and NATO, reaffirming NATO as the cornerstone of collective defense. At the same time, they call for a stronger EU defense pillar so that the EU can act autonomously if necessary. The report highlights the importance of interoperable military capabilities across Europe, as well as joint procurement, industrial cooperation, standardization and alignment with NATO planning to avoid duplication and improve readiness.
The report welcomes the expansion of the SDP with like-minded EU partners, including NATO allies such as Norway, the United Kingdom and Canada, as well as other partners in Europe and the Indo-Pacific region. Special emphasis is placed on Ukraine as a strategic priority partner, and MPs call for continuous military, industrial and political support, as well as security guarantees for Kyiv, while frozen Russian assets are used for the reconstruction of Ukraine in accordance with international law. They propose formalizing a strategic partnership with Ukraine.
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“In the history of the EU, we have never faced greater security challenges or greater uncertainty. In this volatile security environment, we must respond with force – we need defense partnerships to build areas of common interest against spheres of influence and imperialist activities. This report opens a new chapter for expanded and improved EU partnerships. To deter Russian imperialism, the EU has no bigger and more important partner than Ukraine. Ukrainians have not only defended the EU, but also created the most battle-hardened, the most effective and innovative military forces in Europe. It is in the EU’s main interest to deepen our partnership with Ukraine, including in defense industry and innovation. Support for Ukraine is the basis of EU defense,” said rapporteur Michal Szczerba (PPE, Poland).
The report was adopted by 440 votes to 119, with 85 abstentions.
date:2026-02-11 12:14:00