EU Eastern Flank Nations Unite to Strengthen Defense

EU nations on Russia's borders are developing proposals to enhance defense and security. An 'eastern flank' meeting, including leaders from Sweden, Estonia, and others, aims to promote EU 'flagship' defense projects. Hesitation from Germany and France poses challenges to the initiative's progress.

Amid rising tensions and increasing security concerns, European Union nations bordering Russia are working on strengthening their defense strategies. According to Finland's prime minister, concrete proposals are being developed to tackle these challenges.

An 'eastern flank' meeting comprising leaders from Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania is set to take place in Helsinki. The participating countries aim to send a strong message ahead of a larger summit in Brussels next week.

Despite resistance from major EU powers such as Germany and France, which prefer non-EU defense collaborations, the northern and eastern EU members are determined to advance their 'flagship' project, Eastern Flank Watch, and secure EU funding for it.

(With inputs from agencies.)