MEPs have supported measures to improve the movement of troops and military equipment across the European Union in response to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. The European Parliament is calling for the removal of internal borders for military movements and upgrades to transport infrastructure such as railways, roads, tunnels, and bridges.
The resolution emphasizes that efficient military mobility is essential for European security and defense, especially for countries on the eastern flank like the Baltic states and Poland. MEPs welcomed a proposal from the European Commission to increase the budget for military mobility in the next long-term EU budget to over €17 billion. They urged member states not to cut this proposed funding, noting that previous cuts reduced funds by 75% in the 2021-2027 budget period. According to MEPs, upgrading around 500 critical infrastructure points would require at least €100 billion, and they called on the Commission to simplify procedures for funding dual-use projects.
Despite progress in recent years, Parliament noted that administrative and financial barriers still slow down cross-border movement of military equipment—sometimes taking more than a month. MEPs called for further investment in transport infrastructure along four main EU military mobility corridors, greater use of digital solutions, and faster authorizations through a one-stop-shop system.
They also recommended moving toward a “military Schengen area,” supported by a dedicated task force and a European coordinator to streamline implementation efforts. The Commission would be responsible for providing a roadmap for these initiatives.
Parliament highlighted that improved military mobility is crucial for cooperation between the EU and NATO. The resolution calls for regular joint exercises with NATO and stress tests to identify obstacles. MEPs want rapid reaction troops to be able to cross internal EU borders within three days during peacetime or within 24 hours during crises, following NATO’s example.
European Parliament co-rapporteur Petras Auštrevičius (Renew, LT) said: “To maintain Europe’s strength and ability to deter aggressors, it is crucial we demonstrate our readiness to act. This includes having the capacity to deploy troops and equipment rapidly throughout the EU. Overcoming administrative burdens and developing capacity and dual-use infrastructure is not a luxury, but a necessity. Parliament is highlighting the work that remains to be done to achieve a true ‘military Schengen area’, and this must be accomplished in the shortest possible time.”
Co-rapporteur Roberts Zīle (ECR, LV) added: “Currently, there are far too many hindrances to military mobility that could be quickly addressed without requiring much funding. Military mobility has become even more urgent in light of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. There is no time to waste – we must keep up the momentum and reach for the low-hanging fruit.”
The resolution was adopted with 493 votes in favor, 127 against, and 38 abstentions. Committees on Transport and Defence will now begin legislative work on the package introduced by the European Commission in November.
