Kallas scraps new high-level European defense group in fresh blow to her leadership

The European Union's diplomatic service has scrapped a new high-level defense group, led by President Ursula von der Leyen's predecessor, Ursula Kallas, amidst pressure from member states. This move comes as Ukraine's air-defence gap remains a pressing concern, with the EUISS urging Europe to close it before winter. Coverage from euractiv.com and politico.eu reveals that France and Germany were among the member states opposing the new defense group.

The opposition to the defense group is linked to a request from Ukraine for funding to purchase its first Patriot missiles. The EU's diplomatic service has instead focused on addressing Ukraine's air-defence needs, with the EUISS warning of the consequences of not acting before winter. The move is seen as a fresh blow to Kallas' leadership, with politico.eu suggesting that the opposition to the defense group may have been driven by a desire to limit her influence.

Coverage from euractiv.com and euronews.com does not specify the exact reasons behind the opposition to the defense group, but it is clear that the move has been driven by a desire to address Ukraine's air-defence needs and limit Kallas' influence. The consequences of not acting on Ukraine's air-defence gap remain unclear, and it is unclear what the EU's next steps will be in addressing this issue.