The European industry must learn from Ukraine's defense complex - von der Leyen.

Europe must strengthen its defense industry - Ursula von der Leyen

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, stated at a press conference in Brussels that Europe must enhance its own defense industry and exchange experiences with the Ukrainian defense complex.

This statement was made after a meeting of heads of states and EU leaders, where the strengthening of European defense was discussed.

'We discussed cooperation with Ukraine and its defense industry. The Ukrainian industry, particularly in drone manufacturing, is impressive - fast, efficient, and focused on smart technologies. We can learn a lot from the Ukrainian defense industry, which has real battlefield experience practically every day,' said the President of the European Commission.

Von der Leyen emphasized that Europe faces various threats, including Russia's aggression against Ukraine and cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.

'We must be ready and respond as a whole. Europe needs a strong defense and a reinforced industrial base,' Ursula von der Leyen stressed.

The President also expressed the need for increased defense spending and the simplification of regulatory rules in the defense sector.

'If we are spending billions of money, we must return these investments in the form of growth in know-how and jobs in Europe. The European Commission will present a White Paper on the future of European defense by March, and based on it, member countries will be able to make necessary decisions by June,' Ursula von der Leyen noted.