The European Union has officially approved a large-scale financial mechanism aimed at strengthening Europe’s defense sector
During the EU General Affairs Council meeting on May 27, the SAFE instrument was adopted — an innovative financial scheme that envisages mobilizing up to 150 billion euros in loans for investments in the development of the defense industry of EU member states. This initiative aims to create new opportunities for rapid and effective escalation of military resources on the continent. According to sources within the Polish Presidency of the EU, the SAFE mechanism was approved by an almost unanimous vote, with no country opposing any of the proposals. The only notable detail is that one country abstained from an open vote; however, the official name of this country was not disclosed. Furthermore, the introduction of this mechanism could mark a new stage in the cooperation of member states on security issues. The plan is to raise funds — up to 150 billion euros — from financial markets to be allocated to defense programs based on requests from respective member countries, aligned with their national plans and strategies for the development of the defense sector. This will enable governments to respond swiftly and scale up domestic production capacities, saving time and significantly strengthening the European Union’s defensive capabilities. A key aspect of this initiative is that Ukraine’s defense industry will have equal opportunities to access funding through this mechanism alongside enterprises from other EU countries. This opens new prospects for cooperation between Ukraine and European countries in the fields of defense development, technology, and weapons production. It is worth noting that diplomatic representatives commented on the outcome of the vote. According to the information provided to "European Pravda" by a correspondent, the representative of the Polish Presidency stated that the SAFE mechanism was implemented based on broad consensus, though without explicit opposition — one country abstained. Meanwhile, another diplomat from a different negotiating environment refused to name the country that abstained, but it was suggested that it could be Hungary. The signing and approval of the SAFE instrument is a logical step within the broader program to enhance Europe’s defense capabilities, which is gaining momentum amidst geopolitical challenges and escalating regional conflicts. Currently, the European Union is preparing for new security challenges, and this financial mechanism is intended to ensure the necessary level of mobility and operational efficiency in executing defense initiatives. Additionally, experts emphasize that the approval of this mechanism could significantly strengthen Ukraine’s position within European defense cooperation, as the country will have equal opportunities to participate in European defense projects alongside other EU member states. This opens new prospects for developing Ukraine’s defense industry, technological innovations, and joint ventures with European companies. If the SAFE mechanism is fully launched and begins operating at full capacity, it could become an important tool for enhancing security and stability in Europe and beyond. It may also serve as a signal of European solidarity in the face of current global challenges and a potential response to crises threatening regional security. See also: EU prepares for war: how European leaders coordinated new security initiatives.