GLOBSEC 2026: Ukraine As an Element of Europe’s New Defense Architecture

At the 21st GLOBSEC 2026 Security Forum in Prague, the key theme was “The Global Systemic Transformation” – ranging from russia’s war against Ukraine to technological competition, energy risks, and the new architecture of European security. The event, considered one of Europe’s leading platforms on geopolitics and defense, was attended by over 1,800 representatives from more than 75 countries, including President of the European Parliament R. Metsola, President of Moldova M. Sandu, Vice-President of the European Commission H. Virkkunen, former NATO Secretary General A.F. Rasmussen, as well as representatives of governments, defense agencies, think tanks, the technology sector, and the businesses community.

The discussions revealed a shift in Europe’s approach to defense: the growth of military budgets is no longer viewed as a self-sufficient indicator of security. The focus is on the ability to rapidly convert funding into serial production of weapons, stockpiling of ammunition, development of logistics, and preparation for a prolonged, high-intensity conflict.

Forum participants viewed Ukraine not as an object of support, but as an element of Europe’s future defense architecture. Practical experience in the fields of UAVs, electronic warfare, air defense, digital command and control of troops, and rapid military adaptation is seen as a resource for transforming EU and NATO defense planning. The EU’s Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova emphasized that Ukraine should be viewed as part of the European security system, while Czech President Petr Pavel called support for Kyiv an investment in the continent’s security.

Special emphasis was placed on Europe’s technological autonomy. Artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, and space systems are increasingly determining military superiority, which increases the need for a domestic technology base, the protection of critical supply chains, and a decrease in dependence on external suppliers in the defense and intelligence sectors.

The topic of EU enlargement was also considered from a security perspective. The future integration of Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkan countries was presented as a tool for geopolitical stability, while delaying the process was seen as a risk to Brussels’ influence and an incentive for Euroskeptic and pro-russian forces. Against this background, intermediate integration formats, including access to the single market and EU programs, are seen as a way to maintain political momentum until full membership.

Forum participants also linked the escalation around Iran to new risks to Europe’s energy security. Among the priorities – import diversification, protection of critical infrastructure, and development of renewable energy and small modular reactors.

The key message of the Forum was that support for Ukraine is increasingly being integrated into the core model of European security. For Europe, Ukraine’s experience of war is becoming not only a matter of solidarity but also a practical tool for adapting to a new strategic reality.