In this first episode of the Eastern Frontline Podcast, host MEPs Reinis Pozņaks and Katri Kulmuni are joined by European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, to discuss the urgent challenges facing Europe’s security.

Warning that Russia has the potential to test NATO within three years, Kubilius says improving defence readiness must be "our daily priority".

The conversation covers:

• Europe’s €131 billion defence budget and what it means in practice
• How drones are reshaping modern warfare - and how Eastern Frontline states must prepare
• Why defence spending is also an investment in economic growth
• The role of startups, SMEs, and cooperation with Ukraine in defence innovation
• Why the European Parliament and governments must act faster to deliver readiness

Kubilius is clear: “We are not at war, but neither are we at peace. We are living in a period of defence readiness.”

🎧 Listen now for an unflinching look at Europe’s security challenges — and the choices policymakers must make.