EU Launches €150bn ‘SAFE’ Fund Strategic Autonomy Amid Rising Security Concerns
EU Launches €150bn SAFE — a major defense investment program aimed at strengthening Europe’s military readiness amid escalating global threats. On Tuesday, EU ministers in Brussels approved the Security Action for Europe (SAFE), marking a major step toward unified European defense. The move reflects growing fears of Russian aggression and doubts about U.S. security commitments.
SAFE will use joint EU borrowing to offer loans for cross-border defense projects. , received support from 26 of the 27 EU countries and EU Launches €150bn ‘SAFE’ Fund . Hungary abstained from the vote.
Poland, which currently holds the EU’s rotating presidency, hailed the decision. “The more we invest in our security, the better we deter those who wish us harm,” the government stated on social media. Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak added, “We must stay united in the face of external threats. This fund is essential for our future security.”
The European Commission introduced the SAFE proposal in March. It came in response to rising fears that the U.S. may not fully support NATO allies in the event of an attack. These concerns have intensified since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Supporting Defense Industry and Strategic Cooperation
Despite a 30% increase in EU defense spending over the past three years, leaders remain worried about long-term readiness. SAFE aims to address those concerns by enhancing cooperation and boosting the defense industry across member states.
To qualify for loans under the fund, projects must ensure that at least 65% of their value comes from firms in the EU, the European Economic Area, or Ukraine. The initiative also allows companies from countries with Security and Defence Partnership agreements—such as the UK—to apply, under specific conditions. This paves the way for UK firms like BAE Systems to take part, thanks to a recent EU-UK defense pact.
The European Commission bypassed the European Parliament to fast-track SAFE’s launch. It secured direct approval from national governments to speed up the process.
Russia has condemned the EU’s military buildup, claiming it provokes instability. However, European leaders point to continued Russian aggression as a real threat. They argue that SAFE reflects a necessary shift toward greater EU military independence and strategic resilience.
