# Proposal for a European Legion military force > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/proposal-for-a-european-legion-military-force > Updated: 2026-08-16T14:55:00.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2. Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has proposed the establishment of a ‘European Legion,’ a permanent military force intended to deepen defense integration within the European Union. The proposal suggests recruiting professional soldiers from across Europe, including the potential incorporation of battle-hardened Ukrainian veterans once the war with Russia concludes. Sikorski clarified that the initiative is meant to complement NATO rather than compete with it. While acknowledging the United States as a vital security anchor, he argued that Europe must assume greater responsibility for ground operations and security. Further details indicate the proposed unit would initially consist of a brigade-sized force funded by the EU budget and subject to the Foreign Affairs Council. The legion would be capable of addressing lower-level threats in regions such as North Africa or the Balkans, rather than serving as the primary deterrent against Russia. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-16: Radosław Sikorski proposes ‘European Legion’ for EU military integration Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski proposed a ‘European Legion,’ a permanent EU military unit that could recruit experienced professionals and Ukrainian veterans to bolster European defense. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/radosaw-sikorski-proposes-european-legion-for-eu-military-integration ### 2026-08-14: Radosław Sikorski proposes European Legion to bolster EU defense Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski proposed a ‘European Legion’ to integrate EU military capabilities and recruit Ukrainian veterans, aiming to bolster European autonomy alongside NATO. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/radosaw-sikorski-criticizes-president-karol-nawrocki-over-defense-funding-and-political-direction --- Cite as: Proposal for a European Legion military force. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/proposal-for-a-european-legion-military-force