When faced with a potential conflict where Russia attacks Nato, could Europe’s infrastructure challenges hinder the timely arrival of reinforcements? Our detailed exploration navigates the arduous 45-day military journey across the continent.
Today, our Berlin bureau chief provides a sneak peek into a collaborative effort between France and Germany to support a pan-European tech strategy, while our Rome bureau chief covers Italy’s intensified support for Ukraine.
Tech collaboration
Is there a possibility for Europe’s major economies to unify in bridging the artificial intelligence gap with global giants like China and the US? Under the leadership of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, the EU is advancing towards a genuine Franco-German tech alliance, as highlighted by Anne-Sylvaine Chassany.
Context: A joint summit on EU digital sovereignty in Berlin today, hosted by the two leaders, aims to kickstart AI projects across various sectors, including cloud computing, medical research, and defense technology.
The focus lies on Europe’s quest to reduce reliance on US cloud service providers, diminish dependence on Chinese digital infrastructure, and cultivate a more innovation-friendly environment domestically.
While the concept of “sovereignty” has long been championed in France, it has gained traction in Berlin more recently.
Following his election win in February, Merz, known for his pro-Atlantic stance, surprised many by advocating for Europe’s independence from the US. His culture minister has also backed a digital levy on US platforms for the sake of fairness.
Last week, the chancellor confirmed plans to phase out all components from Chinese manufacturer Huawei in telecommunications networks when feasible.
“It’s crucial that our major member states are dedicated to technological sovereignty and are eager to drive this agenda forward,” expressed Henna Virkkunen, the EU’s tech chief representing the European Commission at the event. “For our tech companies, it’s paramount that member states support European Union businesses.”
Paris and Berlin are inclined towards easing some EU regulations on AI, criticized by startups like France’s Mistral for being overly stringent. Mistral, a leading AI player in Europe, is anticipated to unveil partnerships with German entities today to showcase Franco-German collaboration.
Both nations are poised to adopt a “Buy European” approach in public procurement, a key request of European tech firms. These firms also urge the commission to facilitate the emergence of major players through mergers and acquisitions.
“Our goal is for European public and private entities to rely on credible, competitive, and trusted technological alternatives developed within our digital ecosystems,” emphasized a coalition of tech trade associations in a joint statement.
Chart of the day: Major players
Several prominent European defense firms are gearing up for public listings to leverage investor enthusiasm.
Reaffirming support
Italy’s top strategic body has reiterated full backing for Ukraine in its fight for freedom, announcing a fresh military aid package tailored to this objective, as detailed by Amy Kazmin.
Context: Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s coalition has been internally divided over support for Ukraine and the commitment to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP.
While Meloni stands firmly with Kyiv, her deputy prime minister Matteo Salvini, a vocal admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has questioned the rationale behind backing Ukraine, especially in light of recent corruption allegations involving Zelenskyy’s associates.
Tensions within the coalition have escalated as Italy readies its 12th military aid package for Kyiv, rumored to include ammunition, missiles, and power generators, although specifics remain confidential.
During a recent meeting, Italy’s Supreme Defence Council emphasized the indispensability of participating in EU and Nato initiatives supporting Ukraine.
The council also highlighted concerns regarding the “hybrid threat” posed by Russia and other hostile foreign entities in Italy and Europe, encompassing cyber attacks, disinformation campaigns, interference in democratic processes, and the exploitation of digital platforms to erode trust in institutions and social cohesion.
“These threats present a challenge that demands a prompt and effective response, including the development of new tools,” stated Mattarella’s office.
Key events today
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hosts Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Madrid.
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Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte meets Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava.
Further reading
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