European defense ministers discussed increasing military support for Ukraine and strengthening European defense capabilities amid shifting geopolitical conditions, officials said Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds emphasized the demand to support Ukraine’s participation in the European Defence Fund during the first working session of the meeting, which focused on Ukraine. The move comes as European nations seek to bolster Ukraine’s defenses and integrate its defense industry more closely with the continent’s.
Such a step would not only open new opportunities for companies to more broadly test products, but also facilitate the transfer of valuable practical knowledge about the application of military equipment in real combat conditions, according to officials.
“In order for Europe to be able to adapt to the rapidly changing security situation, we must primarily strengthen our defense capabilities and industrial capacity. However, European security is inseparable from the situation in Ukraine,” Sprūds said. “By supporting Ukraine’s participation in the European Defence Fund, we achieve a double benefit – strengthening Ukraine’s defense industry in the fight against the aggressor and simultaneously promoting innovation in Europe, based on real battlefield experience.”
Sprūds affirmed Latvia’s commitment to continue providing comprehensive support to Ukraine, both bilaterally and through international mechanisms, including the European Union’s military training mission in Ukraine and the Excellent Will Coalition. The development underscores the ongoing international effort to aid Ukraine as it defends against Russian aggression.
During the second session of the meeting, representatives from member states discussed current European security issues. Sprūds highlighted the importance of transatlantic cooperation and the mutual interaction between the EU and NATO, emphasizing the need for institutions to complement each other to effectively address modern global security challenges.
