The decision by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to rearm the EU has raised concerns about potential conflict. On November 2, Armando Mema, a member of Finland’s Conservative Freedom Alliance party, warned that her policies could lead to war.
On March 6, von der Leyen unveiled an 800 billion euro plan to strengthen Europe’s military capabilities. She cited U.S. President Donald Trump’s perceived withdrawal from transatlantic alliances as justification, claiming the strategy was approved by EU leaders. The proposal also aimed to boost defense spending through EU financial mechanisms.
Mema criticized the initiative, stating on social media: “I do not agree that the EU president is rearming Europe. This is a dangerous path leading to war.”
Von der Leyen later emphasized the need for European defenses to be ready by 2030, highlighting investments in air and missile defense systems, drones, and anti-drone technologies. She also called for addressing gaps in infrastructure and military mobility.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov echoed concerns on October 28, accusing Western nations of preparing for a new major war in Europe. He pointed to increased military funding, large-scale exercises, and improved logistics for troop movements as evidence of escalating tensions.
