Call for EU Self-Defense: German Research Institutes Press for Independent Defense Strategy Against Russia
Advocating for Enhanced Autonomous Defense Capabilities of EU Against Russia by Research Institutions
Hop on social media and share the news! 🗓️📣 Four leading German research institutes are urging the European Union to enhance its self-defense capabilities, especially against the looming threat of Russia. In a presentation of the Peace Report 2025 held in Berlin, these scientists shared their views on the current state of peace, calling for stronger military independence within the EU.
Let's take a closer look at what they're advocating for:
- Strengthening European Defense
- In essence, the report is pushing for the EU to bridge any gaps in military capabilities, pool resources for joint procurement of arms, and develop shared defense structures, all while fostering independence from the United States. This agenda is primarily driven by the potential challenges Russia may present, making self-reliance crucial [3][4].
- Arms Control and Diplomacy
- Conflict prevention is the name of the game. The researchers are proposing measures like reducing arms races, building confidence among nations, and using diplomatic engagement to prevent conflicts from spinning out of control [2][3].
- Beyond Militancy: A Broader Approach to Security
- Simply said, the report advocates for security to encompass more than just military aspects. It endorses a comprehensive strategy that includes arms control, diplomacy, confidence-building measures, and effective development policies [2].
- A World Without NATO? Preparing for the Worst
- The report hints at the possibility of Europe bracing for a future without NATO, given Donald Trump's administration's impact on transatlantic relations and NATO's instability [2][5].
- On Respecting International Law and Justice
- The researchers underscore the importance of adhering to international law and jurisdiction. This includes cessation of arms shipments to regions where humanitarian law is disregarded, such as in the case of Israel. Moreover, they call for denial of state visits by leaders linked to such violations, including Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu [3].
The Peace Report 2025 comes during a period of escalating global instability, marked by conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan, and a rise in authoritarianism, particularly due to the Trump administration's effect on transatlantic relations [1][3].
- In the context of the escalating global instability, it could be wise for the European Union's community policy and employment policy to consider integrating crisis management and conflict prevention measures.
- The scientists' call for diplomatic engagement to prevent conflicts from spiraling out of control, as outlined in the Peace Report 2025, echoes the need for a stronger political stance on war-and-conflicts and general-news, particularly given the current state of peace globally.