Russia’s war against Ukraine has redefined modern warfare. Advanced military systems can now be neutralized in minutes by low-cost drones, which can also disrupt critical civilian and military infrastructure. This technological shift demands that Europe adapt to the wars of tomorrow rather than prepare for the wars of yesterday. Ukraine’s resilience and battlefield innovation have transformed it from a security consumer into a credible security provider for Europe. Its innovative defence solutions offer key lessons in strengthening European security, especially in the broader battle between democracy and tyranny.
Yet, Europe’s response is hindered by slow procurement, outdated policies, and a peace-time mindset. As Russian aggression escalates, backed by China and Iran, Europe must modernize its defence architecture and deepen partnerships with Ukraine.
This closed-door session will explore Ukraine’s evolving role in Europe’s security architecture and identify joint actions to enhance EU–Ukraine defence cooperation, ensuring Ukraine’s victory and building a sustainable peace in Europe. The discussion will be based on the recently published ICUV&ANTS paper Stronger Europe, United Front – Europe’s Security is Being Decided in Ukraine.
Speakers:
- Pierre Heilbronn, Director of the “Europe in the World” Programme at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (confirmed)
- Amb. Klaus Korhonen, Ambassador for Policy Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland (confirmed)
- Oleksandr Yabchanka, Head of the Robotic Systems Service of the Separate Assault Battalion ‘Da Vinci Wolves’ of the 59th Infantry Brigade, Armed Forces of Ukraine, co-founder Defence Robotics UA Foundation (confirmed)
- Olena Halushka, Head of Board at the International Center for Ukrainian Victory, Board member at the Anticorruption Action Center (confirmed)
- Christian Kremer, International Secretary of the Christian Democratic Union, International Office (invited)
- Rob Bauer, Chair of the Advisory Board, European Defence Initiative; Strategic Advisor, GLOBSEC (invited)