EU Defense Commissioner Warns of Possible Russian Attack as Russia Builds Massive Tank Stockpiles

Andrius Kubilius, the new EU Defense Commissioner raised concerns about a potential Russian attack on the EU and criticized Europe’s lack of preparedness for such a scenario, and called for expedited military buildup, Der Spiegel reported on December 12.

“To be honest, we are not adequately prepared for an attack,” Kubilius admitted and added that “it will take years before Europe achieves the capabilities outlined in NATO’s plans.”

Citing intelligence reports, Kubilius highlighted concerns that Russia could be ready to attack EU member states by 2030.

“Experts say Russia is now producing more tanks than it is deploying at the front line,” he said.

“Countless tanks are being stockpiled, and I can’t help but ask: What is Putin planning? We can only speculate, but we must be ready for the ‘worst-case scenario’ that intelligence agencies are warning about.”

Kubilius, a Lithuanian politician, has long advocated for higher defense spending. Following Donald Trump’s election victory in 2016, he stressed the need for the EU to increase its military expenditures. “Europe must spend more on its defense—not because President Trump demands it, but because of Putin,” he said at the time, referencing Trump’s threat to withdraw from NATO unless allies boosted their defense budgets.

Earlier, German Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius stated that Russia is significantly outpacing the EU countries in the rate of its tank production and delivery.