European Union Defense and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has warned that Russia could create a real conflict scenario in Europe within the next three to four years. Speaking after a meeting with Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, Kubilius described the situation as a potential 'conflict test' for Europe and urged rapid strengthening of the continent’s defense capabilities.

Kubilius emphasized that Russia’s economy has effectively become a wartime economy, posing a long-term security threat to Europe. He identified two major challenges: the potential for Russian aggression and the United States’ call for Europe to assume greater responsibility for its own security as Washington shifts focus toward the Indo-Pacific. He noted that while progress is being made through new financial tools and strategic planning, Europe still heavily depends on U.S. intelligence and satellite systems.

Kubilius also proposed initiating discussions on a European Defense Union that could include the UK, Norway, and Ukraine, stressing that Europe must prepare for greater responsibility within NATO and consider the long-term goal of a unified European army.