"EU advises citizens to prepare a 72-hour emergency supply amid potential conflict risks."

Today News

27 March 2025

An employee replenishes stock at a grocery store in Bretigny-sur-Orge, near Paris. (Benoit Tessier/Reuters)

  European Union citizens should maintain a stockpile of food and essential supplies sufficient for at least 72 hours in case of a crisis, according to new guidance from the EU Commission.

Released on Wednesday, the commission's guidance emphasizes the need for Europe to adopt a culture of “preparedness” and “resilience” in response to growing risks and uncertainties. The 18-page document highlights threats such as Russia’s full-scale war in Ukraine, rising geopolitical tensions, sabotage of critical infrastructure, and electronic warfare.

This initiative from Brussels serves as a warning to member states about the seriousness of the bloc’s security situation. European leaders have increasingly stressed the importance of war-readiness, particularly in light of the ongoing Russian threat and shifting dynamics with the United States. The Trump administration’s approach toward Europe—especially regarding NATO contributions and support for Ukraine—has accelerated efforts to bolster military preparedness across the continent.

The Commission’s European Preparedness Union Strategy urges citizens to take practical steps to ensure readiness in an emergency. This includes maintaining a three-day supply of essential goods, as the initial period following a major disruption is the most critical.

Civilians should be encouraged to develop self-reliance and psychological resilience, according to the document.

The commission also advocates for incorporating “preparedness” lessons into school curricula, equipping students with skills to combat disinformation and information manipulation.

“New realities require a new level of preparedness in Europe,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “Our citizens, our Member States, and our businesses need the right tools to act—both to prevent crises and to respond swiftly when disaster strikes.”

The European Commission’s guidance, issued on Wednesday, follows updates to contingency plans by individual countries.

In June of last year, Germany revised its Framework Directive for Overall Defense, outlining procedures in the event of conflict in Europe. At the time, German Interior Minister ..............

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