Ahead of tomorrow’s European Council Summit in Brussels, Renew Europe calls on EU leaders to seize this pivotal moment and take a decisive leap forward on European security and defence. The recent, shocking changes in the geopolitical landscape, notably the shift in the transatlantic relationship and the urgent need for European strategic autonomy, demand bold and transformative action. Renew Europe welcomes the European Commission’s ‘Rearm EU’ announcement as a first step, but this must be just the beginning. We witness unprecedented disruptive times of the western world, and so unprecedented steps must be taken to deliver a true European awakening. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a new European defence and we must take it. We can no longer afford to be bound by outdated taboos that have held us back: Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said: "We stand with the Government and people of Ukraine, now and forever. Europe's survival and future security depend on bold decisions now. We cannot afford complacency or half-measures. The time has come for Europe to take its place as a military and political power, working in close cooperation with strategic partners like the UK to enhance our collective security." In order for the EU to rise to meet this challenge as a military and political power in its own right, Renew Europe specifically calls for the following actions: 1. Boost Military Capacities and Industry – Our defence industry must be strengthened to meet the threats we face. Currently, Europe is fragmented, with 27 different countries producing different military systems. This inefficiency needs to end. A massive investment in European defence is urgently needed, supporting our industrial base and enabling the EU to develop world-class military infrastructure. This must include a preference for European-produced systems, and the creation of a real common European defence funding to finance our shared goals. 2. Extension of Nuclear Deterrence – We must elevate our nuclear defence to a collective European effort. France and the UK, as nuclear powers, already play a critical role in our security architecture. However, it is time to explore a shared nuclear deterrence, while maintaining their national control over any decisions. This would significantly enhance our collective security and send a powerful message to adversaries. 3. Advance the European Air Defence Shield – In a rapidly evolving security environment, Europe’s air defence capabilities must be integrated and strengthened. A coordinated European Air Defence Shield is essential for the protection of our skies and for ensuring that Europe is capable of defending itself against emerging threats. 4. Implement Article 7 to Remove the Veto Rights of Hungary – The EU must act with unity and purpose. One member state should not be allowed to block essential decisions that affect the entire continent. It is time to implement Article 7 to strip Hungary of its veto power on defence and security matters, ensuring that the EU speaks with one voice. 5. Further Sanctions on Russia – The EU must continue to apply pressure on Russia through targeted sanctions, a full embargo on Russian fossil fuels, including LNG on commercial flights, Putin’s shadow fleets and any other areas that would weaken its military and economic capabilities. Every effort should be made to isolate Russia economically, and to reduce its ability to destabilise Europe further. 6. Establish a European Pillar of NATO – In light of the growing global security challenges, Europe must take on a greater role within NATO, with a dedicated European pillar to coordinate European defence efforts. This would ensure that Europe contributes more effectively to NATO’s shared goals, strengthens its ability to act autonomously when necessary, and solidifies Europe’s position as a leader. | 
