European Security Needs Ukraine’s Lessons to Deter Russia
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has shattered Europe’s long-held belief in lasting peace. The continent now faces its most serious security crisis since World War II. In response, Ukraine’s battlefield-tested innovations offer a powerful blueprint for a stronger and more resilient European defense system.
In their latest report, “Rethinking European Security in the Face of the Russian Threat,” authors from the KSE Institute, Olena Bilousova, Pavlo Shkurenko, Kateryna Olkhovyk, Elina Ribakova, and Lucas Risinger, outline how Europe can integrate Ukraine into its defense strategy to build lasting protection and deterrence against future aggression.
Europe’s Wake-Up Call on Security
For decades, Europe’s defense relied heavily on U.S. military power. But with Washington’s commitment increasingly uncertain, European nations must prepare to defend themselves. Years of underinvestment have left defense industries underdeveloped and ammunition stockpiles dangerously low.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to expand its military capabilities well beyond the war in Ukraine. This shifting landscape makes Ukraine’s role, both as a frontline defender and a hub of defense innovation, indispensable to Europe’s long-term security.
How Ukraine Became a Model for European Defense
For over three years, Ukraine has resisted a larger, nuclear-armed aggressor through speed, adaptability, and rapid technological innovation. From AI-driven battlefield systems to anti-drone warfare, Ukraine demonstrates how creativity and decentralization can offset limited resources.
Europe can learn from Ukraine’s experience to modernize its own defense systems and close existing capability gaps.
Key Research Insights
- Combat-tested technologies: Ukraine’s AI-based DELTA systems and digital command tools provide models for next-generation European defense.
- Cost-effective innovation: Interceptor drones and low-cost countermeasures can neutralize expensive Russian weapons at scale.
- Decentralized procurement: Streamlined processes speed up the delivery of critical battlefield tools and reduce bureaucratic delays.
- Strategic integration: Including Ukraine in European defense programs enhances deterrence and joint security across the continent.
Building a Future-Ready European Defense
The report calls for full integration of Ukraine into Europe’s defense ecosystem — from procurement and research to industrial planning. This includes:
- Granting Ukraine access to EU defense funds
- Embedding Ukrainian military expertise in European training programs
- Co-producing weapons and defense technologies
Such integration would not only bolster European security but also make rearmament faster, more affordable, and more coordinated across the EU and its partners.
Meet the Researchers
- Olena Bilousova: KSE Institute
- Pavlo Shkurenko: KSE Institute
- Kateryna Olkhovyk: KSE Institute
- Elina Ribakova: KSE Institute
- Lucas Risinger: KSE Institute
Read the Full Report
Explore the complete findings and recommendations in the full report on the KSE Institute website. You can also explore more policy briefs covering conflict and sanctions in the FREE Network’s policy briefs section.
