The European Union is developing a new strategic playbook to enhance its mutual defence clause, Article 42.7, aiming to better prepare for crises and reduce reliance on US military support, EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius announced. The plan includes operational language improvements and potential pre-crisis assistance mechanisms to help member states respond more effectively before formal invocation of the clause.

Kubilius praised Cyprus for its role during its EU Council presidency, highlighting the island's strategic location amid multiple regional security challenges including Russia, the Middle East, and Mediterranean instability. He also emphasized the importance of maritime security and drone defence for Cyprus and the broader EU, especially considering Cyprus is not a NATO member.

On Ukraine, Kubilius stressed continued EU commitment, advocating for additional €20 billion in support to maintain battlefield momentum against Russia. He warned that Europe currently lags behind Russia in defence production, urging a shift towards larger-scale, cost-effective military manufacturing. Kubilius underscored the necessity for Europe to assume greater responsibility for its own defence as US strategic priorities evolve and troop levels in Europe are reassessed.