The cobblestone streets of Brussels no longer symbolize slow diplomacy—they now reflect urgency. For decades, European Union leaders believed economic integration ensured lasting peace. But the Russian invasion of Ukraine shattered that assumption. Europe is now racing to rebuild its military strength before new threats emerge.
Warnings from officials are stark. Boris Pistorius cautioned this could be Europe’s “last summer of peace,” while Mark Rutte has warned that Russia may target NATO next. With Vladimir Putin signaling readiness for confrontation, many analysts believe Europe has only a few years to prepare.
