ADAPTING OUR DEFENSE CAPACITIES TO A CHANGING WORLD: A DISCUSSION WITH COMMISSIONER THIERRY BRETON - Since Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the European Union and the United States have provided steadfast support for Ukraine, delivering unprecedented and world-leading levels of military, humanitarian, and financial aid. For transatlantic partners to continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes, military support including artillery shells and defense systems will be instrumental as Ukraine’s fight for survival continues.

The EU has played an increasingly important role in Europe and Ukraine’s security. To secure the future of its defense industry production and keep up the drumbeat of support for Ukraine, the EU is also drafting new proposals in support of Europe’s defense industry and capabilities to build a stronger Europe and to bolster NATO and the transatlantic alliance.

Against this backdrop, European Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton joined the Atlantic Council during his visit to the United States to discuss the EU’s defense industry agenda and the impact of the war in Ukraine and the changing geopolitical context on defense needs.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 01/29/2024