To shift the balance of power in a protracted war, Ukraine needs serious steps to strengthen its air defense system and develop its defense industry. Equally important is that Europe clearly demonstrates that it is truly alongside Ukraine, not behind it.
This opinion was expressed in an interview by Austrian military expert, Brigadier General of the Austrian Armed Forces (retired) Herald Karner.
Europe Must Act Alongside Ukraine
“The decisive factor is strengthening the air defense system. It is precisely this on which the support of Europe, the United States, and NATO should be focused. At the same time, it is crucial that Ukraine continues to develop its own defense industry – together with logistics, maintenance, and the restoration of equipment – and protect it. Equally important is that Europe clearly shows that it truly stands beside Ukraine, not behind it. This is a fundamental difference
According to Karner, Europe responds slowly due to the complexity of coordinating among 27 governments. But when the system is up and running, it works efficiently and yields results.
“I think Ukraine will feel this, at the latest, as early as next year”
In his view, the latest news from Brussels shows that the system is really gaining momentum.
“The European defense industry is ramping up production, support for Ukraine is becoming more systematic. Europe is increasingly procuring American weapons systems, which are then handed over to Ukraine. The latest decisions of the European Council clearly indicate this. Officially, it speaks of “strengthening defense on the eastern flank” of the EU and NATO, but in practice this also means smoothing the supply of weapons to Ukraine”, – said Karner.
In the context of these trends, EU leaders confirmed the need for close cooperation with Ukraine and its integration into Europe’s defense industry.
The expert emphasizes that battlefield changes require synergy among European countries, the United States, and NATO, as well as continued development of Ukraine’s defense base – this is the key to strengthening security on the continent.
