A Cor Cinniúnach? Ireland’s Defence Policy since 2022

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the strategic position of many European governments has undergone a dramatic reorganisation, encapsulated by then-Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Zeitenwende address to the Bundestag three days after the invasion. Although far less prominent in this sea of change, similar debates on the country’s defensive future in this new European security environment also occured in Ireland. This study will examine if the changes proposed or implemented in Ireland’s defence and security policies since Russia’s invasion represent a real shift in the Republic’s defence policy -an Irish Zeitenwende or Cor Cinniúnach- or if this is a case of rhetoric overshadowing action. The paper will analyse the shift in the Irish security landscape both domestically and in the country’s international relations, from the invasion to the present, taking into account the release of the new Programme for Government following the general election in 2024, as well as the potential impact of future changes in the country’s internal politics and relations with Northern Ireland.

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Resilience and Rearmament: A Comparative Analysis of Russia’s Defence Industrial Base in 2025

This paper provides a comparative analysis of Russian and European defence industrial capacities in the aftermath of the 2022 Ukraine invasion amid the ongoing retreat of U.S. global security commitments. While Russia has demonstrated short-term resilience through mass production of tanks, artillery, and drones, it remains vulnerable due to technological dependencies and supply chain constraints. In contrast, the European Union, despite structural fragmentation, is mobilising towards strategic autonomy through initiatives like ASAP and EDIS. The study argues that Russia’s high-volume model may face sustainability limits, whereas Europe’s innovation-oriented, collaborative framework could offer long-term strategic depth. The research evaluates production trends, budgetary shifts, and geopolitical implications to assess the trajectory of both blocs in the emerging post-American security order.

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Can France’s Nuclear Deterrent Be Extended to Europe?

The Trump administration’s hostile rhetoric towards Europe, its seeming reluctance to uphold the United States’ (US) security guarantees, and Russia’s assertive behaviour on the international stage have led to a profound strategic debate on nuclear deterrence amongst Europeans. Some European leaders have questioned whether France could fill the nuclear deterrence gap left by the US, and Emmanuel Macron has initiated a strategic debate to this end. Extending the French nuclear deterrent to protect Europe will require it to be complemented by the United Kingdom’s (UK) own deterrent. It is a process that necessitates careful consulting between European allies, as well as an appropriate framework and doctrine in order to be effective. The question will also be whether France’s nuclear deterrent must complement or replace the US’. For European land forces, this shift signals a closer strategic alignment between European NATO allies and will influence the likeliness of high-intensity conflict in the future.

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Strategic Narratives: Russia’s Influence in Africa and the Challenge for Europe

Russia’s information operations in non-Western environments, particularly in African countries, have significant implications for European security and defence. Historical ties and prevailing sentiment in certain African states make them more susceptible to specific narratives that can be exploited to serve Russian strategic interests. This paper examines the mechanisms and objectives of Russia’s influence campaigns in these regions and assesses their impact on European interests. By analysing Russia’s methods and the vulnerabilities they target, the study aims to provide insight into potential countermeasures for both the EU and NATO. Strategic responses including strengthening digital resilience, enhancing diplomatic engagement, and fostering media literacy are explored as potential means to mitigate Russian influence and protect European security.

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Read more about the article Hypersonic missiles and European security: Challenges ahead
Picture: Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, Creative Commons.

Hypersonic missiles and European security: Challenges ahead

Hypersonic technology is expected to revolutionise the way countries throughout the world can counter ballistic and nuclear attacks. With these technologies arises a new kind of arms race, putting today’s global balance of power at risk.

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