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Ukraine is becoming a foundational pillar for Europe's new security architecture
The Kyiv Independent • • world
Key Points:
- The debate over Ukraine's relationship with Europe has shifted from EU membership to whether Europe can defend itself without Ukraine, with the clear conclusion that it cannot.
- Ukraine has become a key security provider in Europe, developing the continent's most combat-experienced military, innovative defense technologies, and new warfare doctrines amid the ongoing conflict.
- European policymakers are exploring phased integration of Ukraine into EU political and security structures before full membership, acknowledging political constraints and the urgency of current security challenges.
- Proposals like the creation of a European Defense Union aim to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities with Ukraine playing a central role, complementing NATO rather than replacing it.
- Ukraine's battlefield experience, defense innovation, and military expertise are increasingly seen as indispensable to Europe's future security architecture, especially amid reduced American military presence and evolving geopolitical threats.
