European People’s Party (EPP) President Manfred Weber said Thursday that while Europe’s commitment to NATO remains unquestionable, the European Union can only achieve true independence and security by acting in unity, including through the creation of a joint “drone wall” along its eastern border.
“There should be no illusions – transatlantic ties with the United States are the foundation of Europe’s security. But all European countries must unite and make security our top priority,” Weber told reporters in Vilnius.
“The taxpayers of not only Lithuania but also Germany, France and Portugal should contribute to these investments on the EU’s eastern frontier,” he said. “If we can build a shared drone wall together, it becomes in every country’s interest to strengthen our protection on the front line.”
Weber added that joint procurement and technology development could save money and improve efficiency. “We can save resources if we make purchases for the eastern European shield together and develop technology collectively,” he said.
Homeland Union–Lithuanian Christian Democrats leader Laurynas Kasčiūnas said the drone defence concept was prompting NATO to reassess its strategic planning and adapt to new realities.
“NATO’s capability targets outline what each country must acquire and maintain over four years to meet alliance defence plans,” Kasčiūnas said. “The EU’s [drone wall] initiative aligns perfectly with those goals. NATO must also adapt to the new reality of European defence cooperation.”
Weber said recent Russian attacks on European countries have shown that Europeans can rely on both their own and their allies’ defences.
“When Russia attacked Estonia, Danish fighter jets helped repel it. When there was an incident with a drone over Poland, Italian forces assisted. We have German troops here in Lithuania, showing their readiness to defend our European way of life together,” he said. “We already have proof that we can inspire confidence among our citizens.”
Weber also warned against the rise of populism and far-right movements across Europe.
“Europe must preserve its spirit,” he said. “Today we see populism and the far right – Viktor Orbán, Marine Le Pen – leading Europe in another direction. This is a threat, and we must remain vigilant and continue convincing people of our shared European values.”
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