War against Ukraine

Since the Trump administration took office, US aid to Ukraine has come to a standstill, while Europe has consistently maintained its support, widening the gap in total allocations: The European continent has now allocated EUR 23 billion more than the United States. This is shown in the latest update of the Ukraine Support Tracker, which covers aids until February 2025. Smaller countries like Estonia and Denmark contribute disproportionately relative to their economic size—while larger economies such as Germany, France, and Spain are being called upon to play a more significant role.

Climate policy is a central pillar of the European security architecture, especially in times of global crises. A new report by the Kiel Institute quantifies the security benefits of an ambitious EU climate policy. For every euro Europe spends less on oil, Russia’s war chest shrinks by 13 cents, thereby easing pressure on European defense budgets. These could decrease by 37 cents for each euro saved on oil. The calculations make it clear: From a geopolitical perspective as well, a higher CO₂ price is justified – and a speed limit would also have a direct security benefit

Should the US permanently end its financial and military support for Ukraine, European states could fill the gap in many areas or even overcompensate. A new analysis by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy shows that this would be possible with relatively little additional effort, particularly in the financial sector. Replacing American weapons and ammunition assistance is more difficult, but here, too, Europe could deliver in important areas. There is currently no substitute for US military intelligence.