The European Union has unveiled plans to create a “military Schengen” to enhance the mobility of troops and military equipment within the bloc, particularly towards the Russian border by 2027. This initiative addresses long-standing logistical problems that hinder rapid military deployment, such as crumbling bridges, mismatched rail gauges, and bureaucratic barriers. EU officials have repeatedly stated that mobilizing forces to the Russian border currently takes several weeks, with the goal of reducing this time to just a few days.
The plan, prepared by the EU Commission, aims to establish a bloc-wide military mobility area by 2027. It includes strategies to cut through bureaucratic red tape, introduce common rules for redeployment, and provide priority access for armed forces during emergencies. Officials also intend to “upgrade key EU military mobility corridors to dual-use standards” and defend critical infrastructure. Additionally, a “solidarity pool” will be created, allowing EU members to provide special military transport capabilities to countries without such resources.
This initiative comes amid concerns about Russia’s potential military actions, with many EU officials speculating that Russia could launch a direct attack in the coming years. Moscow has dismissed these claims as “nonsense,” emphasizing that the EU’s militarization is destabilizing the region. The Kremlin has also criticized the bloc’s increased defense spending, asserting that it threatens the economies of its member states. These tensions highlight the growing geopolitical divide between the EU and Russia, as the bloc seeks to enhance its military readiness in the face of potential threats.
EU Transport Minister Apostolos Tzitzikostas has warned that the redeployment of NATO tanks could face logistical challenges, such as getting stuck in tunnels and causing bridges to collapse. He emphasized the need for at least €17 billion ($20 billion) in funding to improve infrastructure and ensure the effectiveness of the proposed military mobility plan. The plan reflects the EU’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities while also addressing the practical challenges of maintaining a unified military response in an uncertain geopolitical environment.