# European security and defense capability discussions > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-security-and-defense-capability-discussions > Updated: 2026-09-02T12:50:19.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. German officials and former leadership have emphasized the urgent need for enhanced European security and defense capabilities in response to the war in Ukraine and hybrid threats. Angela Ganninger, the German Ambassador to Romania, noted that the conflict poses a constant threat to stability on NATO’s eastern flank. She highlighted the necessity of strengthening air defense, specifically regarding manned and unmanned aerial systems, as battlefields are increasingly shaped by AI-coordinated drone swarms. Former Chancellor Angela Merkel echoed these concerns in Bucharest, warning that Europe can no longer rely solely on the United States and must increase military spending. In related developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for German support and sanctions. Zelenskyy and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz are reportedly finalizing a drone agreement to enhance protection for both nations, with Ukraine offering expertise to assist Germany with drone defense capabilities. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-02: Angela Merkel warns Europe on security as Zelenskyy praises German support Angela Merkel warns Europe must increase defense spending as U.S. reliability shifts, while President Zelenskyy praises German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for sanctions and ongoing military support. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/angela-merkel-warns-europe-on-security-as-zelenskyy-praises-german-support ### 2026-08-31: Germany's Ambassador calls for enhanced European defense capabilities Germany's Ambassador to Romania emphasizes the urgent need to enhance European defense and air capabilities due to the war in Ukraine and hybrid threats. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/germanys-ambassador-calls-for-enhanced-european-defense-capabilities --- Cite as: European security and defense capability discussions. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-security-and-defense-capability-discussions