Robles warns that the EU must be able to strategically “anticipate” threats

The Diplomat Defense Minister Margarita Robles warned her European counterparts on Tuesday that the EU must strengthen its capacity to strategically “anticipate” security challenges through “an updated, comprehensive, and innovative analysis of shared threats from a 360-degree perspective.” Robles participated in the European Union Foreign Affairs Council's Defense session in Brussels, chaired by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kakha Kallas. During the meeting, the ministers discussed the results of the updated global analysis of the threats facing Europe, continued support for Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East and its implications for European defense and security, and European defense preparedness. During a working session analyzing the most relevant aspects of the future EU Security Strategy, Robles stressed the importance of having “an updated, comprehensive, and innovative analysis of shared threats from a 360-degree perspective.” “This is essential to anticipate challenges and strengthen the security of our citizens,” stated the minister, who was accompanied by the Secretary General for Defense Policy, Admiral Juan Francisco Martínez Núñez, according to a press release from the Ministry of Defense. Later, during a working lunch, the ministers discussed the latest developments in European support for Ukraine, with particular attention to industrial cooperation between the EU and the country. The session included the participation, via videoconference, of the Ukrainian Minister of Defense, Mykhailo Fedorov, and the presence of NATO Deputy Secretary General Radmilla Shekerinska. At this point, Robles reaffirmed Spain's commitment to Ukraine and stressed that "European unity remains key to sustaining effective and coordinated support, in the military, industrial, and humanitarian spheres." Separately, the ministers discussed the situation in Lebanon and expressed their support for the peacekeepers deployed in the region, where Spain has approximately 700 troops stationed. In this regard, Robles highlighted the important work carried out by the military to maintain security in the country, where "the situation is worrying due to constant instability, all this without overlooking the short-term future and the necessary debate on what the future of this region will be when UNIFIL's mandate ends." Furthermore, in light of the increased media and political attention focused on Ukraine, Lebanon, and the Middle East, the minister insisted that "other places like the Sahel or the Indian Ocean should not be forgotten, where the work carried out by our Armed Forces in the fight against piracy is fundamental." Separately, Robles reaffirmed the Spanish Navy's commitment to economic and energy stability and global security, and the ministers reiterated their recognition of Operation ATALANTA, the anti-piracy mission in the Indian Ocean, "in which Spain is very actively involved," as the Ministry noted. Regarding the current crisis in the Middle East and its direct effects on European security, Robles warned that "it is essential to act with responsibility, coordination, and strategic vision, in accordance with international law." The ministers also addressed the status of implementation of the defense readiness agenda, including progress toward a single defense market and the review of the procurement directive in this area. In this regard, Robles stated that "strengthening the industrial base and moving toward greater strategic autonomy are essential to guarantee the EU's ability to respond to any scenario." Within this framework, the president of the European Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association, Micael Johansson, outlined the industry's efforts to increase the production of air defense systems.

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