After intense negotiations in the European Parliament, with the European Commission and the Member States in the Council, an agreement has been reached on the ReArmEU mini-omnibus package. The S&D Group played a key role in shaping a deal on the legislative proposal where citizens’ security is guaranteed through stronger cooperation between Member States and Ukraine on common defence projects. The Socialists and Democrats are convinced that only through such cooperation can a genuine European Defence Union be achieved. It should be underpinned by a sound industrial policy that aims to harness the potential of the Single Market for job creation, growth and innovation. 

Bruno Gonçalves, S&D negotiator on the matter in the EP’s committee on industry, research and energy, said:

“This mini-omnibus package represents a meaningful step forward for Europe’s strategic autonomy. It broadens the scope of crucial EU programmes – among them Digital Europe, Horizon Europe, the European Defence Fund, as well as the Connecting Europe Facility. The S&D Group has consistently advocated for Ukraine’s eligibility for funding under the European Defence Programme, and we are pleased to announce it is finally part of the deal. 

“This agreement marks an important step towards strengthening Ukraine’s integration into key EU programmes, ensuring the country receives adequate support in the aftermath of Russia’s aggression. It also represents a stepping-stone for the Union to deepen cross-border cooperation in dual-use technologies and our defence industry, reinforcing the European dimension of its industrial and defence policy. 

“By increasing defence-related investments and promoting collaborative projects among Member States, the regulation contributes to building a more resilient and innovative European ecosystem. It maintains a strong focus on excellence in project implementation, supports dual-use applications, and safeguards the civil character of EU research and innovation actions. 

“Throughout the negotiation process, our group’s goal was to enhance the EU’s collective security while fostering technological progress and a closer partnership with Ukraine on its path towards recovery and integration. We are proud our Union can deliver in this regard through the implementation of the ReArmEU Package.”