The SAFE initiative allows third countries to contribute up to 35% of the value of a weapons system, with Canada potentially exceeding this limit subject to fees. Negotiations also addressed intellectual property control and limitations on non-EU components for sensitive systems. Meanwhile, talks with the U.K. recently failed. Crucially, all 19 participating EU countries have submitted spending plans for SAFE loans, with 15 including substantial support for Ukraine.
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Amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Italy is advocating for a stronger European defense, with President Sergio Mattarella renewing calls for a common European army. This push for a unified defense force comes as Italy faces a diplomatic dispute with Russia, triggered by inflammatory remarks from a Russian official linking the collapse of a historic Italian structure to Rome’s support for Ukraine. Italy has responded with a formal protest, condemning the Russian rhetoric as offensive. Despite the diplomatic tension, Italy is continuing its support for Ukraine, with the 12th military aid package in the works.
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EU unveils ‘defense readiness roadmap’ to prepare continent for possible Russia war, and it’s certainly a topic that’s sparking a lot of thought. It’s a fundamental shift, acknowledging the need to be prepared for the worst while hoping for the best. The fact that this roadmap exists at all, years into an ongoing conflict, raises some eyebrows. It’s a little late in the game, some might say.
There’s a lot of debate brewing about the timing. Some find it rather ironic that a comprehensive defense strategy is only now being solidified, especially considering the long-standing tensions and the recent escalation of aggression.… Continue reading
EU’s Kallas: “Territorial concessions to Russia would bring more war, not less.” That statement really cuts to the heart of a massive, complex issue. It’s a position that’s easy to understand, and for good reason: history has shown us, time and again, that giving in to aggression rarely brings lasting peace. Quite the opposite, in fact. Concessions can be perceived as a sign of weakness, and that can embolden an aggressor to push further, leading to more conflict, not less. It’s a chillingly familiar pattern.
Think about the lessons of the past, specifically the lead-up to the Second World War. The appeasement policies adopted by some nations, hoping to placate the expansionist desires of others, ultimately failed.… Continue reading
According to a Kyiv Post source in Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR), Russia and India are planning to deepen their military-technical cooperation. The two countries are scheduled to meet in St. Petersburg from September 15-18 to finalize military cooperation plans for 2025-2026. The agenda includes discussions on defense cooperation, military training, and joint exercises, with Ukrainian intelligence obtaining a detailed schedule. This development comes as India continues to purchase Russian oil and Prime Minister Modi signals positive progress in relations with Russia, suggesting a commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
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Canada and the EU have formalized a comprehensive security and defense partnership, as announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Brussels. This agreement, which includes support for Ukraine and collaboration on issues ranging from climate change to AI, allows Canada to participate in the EU’s €150bn defense fund. The pact, mirroring one signed with the UK, signifies a deepening of transatlantic alliances, possibly influenced by global instability and former US President Donald Trump’s stance on allies. This partnership opens doors for joint procurement and enhanced defense capabilities for Canada, despite its current defense spending falling short of NATO’s 2% GDP target.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood