Ukraine's security depends on the establishment of deterrent guarantees, ranging from material military support to the deployment of ground troops or conditional NATO membership. The credibility of these measures depends on Europe's strategic autonomy in the face of American unpredictability and the establishment of binding legal mechanisms. The 1994 Budapest Memorandum offers a useful reference point for what does not work. Now, a 'coalition of the willing comprising 26 countries' has been established to ensure that the necessary conditions are in place and that Russia will, when the time comes, respect any future ceasefire or peace agreement with Ukraine.

Against a backdrop of US isolationist withdrawal, India is moving away from its traditional non-alignment towards a pragmatic 'multi-alignment' approach. This strategic pivot makes the European Union a key partner, a relationship cemented by a historic free trade agreement in 2026. This rapprochement aims to ensure economic stability and the modernisation of India's defence capabilities in the face of regional pressure from China.

With two weeks to go before the general election in Hungary, the Foundation has published Péter Magyar's article, which originally appeared in the "Schuman Report 2025". As Viktor Orbán's main opponent, Péter Magyar outlines the core principles of his party, Tisza, which currently leads in the polls and advocates a break with the existing system. The emergence of illiberal democracy in Hungary marks a profound break with European standards, replacing pluralism with a centralisation of power. It creates a polarisation that calls for a civic renewal based, in particular, on digital tools. The country's recovery now rests on pragmatic governance aimed at addressing the stagnation and inequalities resulting from structural mismanagement. This approach prioritises stability and job creation for all rather than the preservation of privileges for a select elite.

European military operations go beyond mere defence to become a powerful diplomatic tool, asserting the Union's political presence on the international stage. Despite operational successes and unprecedented multinational experience, they face budgetary complexities and reluctance to engage in high-intensity risk. This defence dynamic is currently the scene of a major institutional rivalry between the Council and the Commission over control of strategic resources.

The European Union has shifted its military focus from territorial crisis management to comprehensive strategic and material support. Since 2021, the European Peace Facility has marked a major turning point by directly funding lethal equipment and partner training. This shift now prioritises technological and budgetary assistance, particularly in Ukraine. The study lists all military operations conducted by Europe since 2003.

Agenda

The credibility test: the security guarantees provided by Europe to Ukraine

The renewed strategic partnership between the EU and India and its significance in the shifting global context.

Hungary as a Trailblazer: the Rise of Illiberal Democracy and its Discontents

European Union military operations – Part 2

European Union military operations – Part 1