EU Leaders Discuss "ReArm Europe" Plan Amid Shifting Security Landscape

EU leaders are convening to discuss the "ReArm Europe" plan, proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aimed at bolstering the bloc's defense capabilities. This follows the reduction of military and financial support from the United States to Ukraine. The plan includes allowing member states to exceed debt-to-GDP limits for defense spending and creating a mechanism to secure €150 billion in loans for joint procurement of military equipment, particularly in areas where Europe relies on the US. Hungary and Slovakia have expressed reservations, but analysts believe a consensus can be reached. Sweden, along with other previously hesitant nations like Finland, Denmark, and Germany, has shifted its stance in favor of increased EU defense cooperation. Germany is considering lifting its debt limit to allocate additional funds for defense and infrastructure.