The European Commission will propose greater flexibility in the military procurement of the Member States.

Commissioner Kubilius stated that without these simplifications, achieving anything in the field of defense readiness will be impossible. He stressed that Putin will not wait until the EU resolves its bureaucratic problems.

Representatives of the European defense industry express concern about excessive EU regulation and delays in accessing funding. The proposed changes, which are expected to be presented on June 17, aim to address some of these issues.

Kubilius explained that the Commission will propose to the Member States greater flexibility in joint procurement, more opportunities for framework agreements, and promotion of innovative procurement. He added that the Commission also wants to make access to the European Defense Fund "easier".

The Commissioner stressed that it is important to review other rules that affect the defense sector, such as licensing regimes, accountability requirements, competition rules, and sustainable financing. The Commission will propose simplification of the Defense Procurement Directive and the Directive on intra-European movement of defense products.

NATO leaders are expected to decide to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP, with some of these expenditures being directed to support for Ukraine, which could significantly strengthen the defense capabilities of the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

The new spending target will be divided: 3.5% of GDP for immediate military needs and 1.5% for broader security projects, including infrastructure. Some NATO countries, such as Canada and Luxembourg, may use aid for Ukraine as part of meeting the new obligations to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP.