As war rages on Europe's eastern flank and old alliances grow uncertain, the European Union is pouring record-breaking sums into defence. From surging military budgets and bunker construction to fears over Donald Trump’s wavering NATO stance, EU nations are preparing for an increasingly unstable world. But as spending on tanks and missiles rises, investments in education, pensions, and infrastructure take a hit. This report explores Europe's biggest military buildup in decades—and the economic and political gamble it represents.