Defence is indeed a national responsibility. But it should not become a national narcissism! Currently, member states are still competing with each other in the defence market instead of procuring jointly. At the same time, the defence industry in some countries continues to supply those who ordered first – and not those who have the most urgent needs, such as Ukraine.

The Commission has now presented a – surprisingly good – proposal to tackle the issue: the European Defence Industrial Strategy. It calls on the member states to produce and procure together – and to prioritise Ukraine’s needs. The EU member states should approve this proposal next week!