McAllister Urges EU to Urgently Close Defence Gaps as Russian Hybrid Threats Escalate

David McAllister, Chair of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, has warned that the European Union must urgently address critical defence capability gaps to counter escalating hybrid threats from Russia. In a wide-ranging assessment of the bloc’s security posture, McAllister stated that while the EU is “not at war with the Russian Federation, we are no longer at peace with Russia.”

He cited daily airspace violations, cyberattacks, and assaults on critical infrastructure as evidence of a deteriorating security environment. McAllister welcomed the unanimous solidarity shown by all 27 member states following the drone attack on Leipzig airport, attributed to Russian special services, underscoring the principle that an attack on one constitutes an attack on all. He argued this unity justifies further sanctions against Moscow and new initiatives to protect vital infrastructure.

McAllister called for a fully fledged European defence capability by the end of the decade, emphasizing the need for increased and more efficient spending of taxpayer funds. He identified specific shortfalls where Europe remains dependent on U.S. capabilities, preventing sovereign decision-making. These gaps include ammunition production, anti-drone systems, satellite intelligence, air-to-air refuelling, and comprehensive air defence.

Regarding the upcoming negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), McAllister acknowledged the “crunch time” ahead. He expressed confidence that a last-minute agreement would be reached, as has historically been the case, and endorsed European Council President Antonio Costa’s target of finalizing the next budget cycle for a January 1, 2028, start. McAllister noted that securing a deal this year would allow 2027 to be used for legislative preparation, giving beneficiaries planning certainty for the 2028–2034 period.

On the political rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, McAllister outlined the European People’s Party’s (EPP) strict firewall strategy. He clarified that while the CDU would not reject its own legislation simply because the AfD supports it, it would never endorse AfD proposals or engage actively with the party. McAllister characterized the AfD as a right-wing populist force opposing the EU, the euro, and NATO while aligning with the Kremlin, concluding that such a trajectory is fundamentally incompatible with the EPP’s centrist, pro-European values.

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