As tensions between the West and Russia continue to escalate amid Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Germany is leading large-scale military exercises in the Baltic Sea involving approximately 8,000 soldiers.
Besides Germany, 13 other NATO member states are participating in the multi-week "Quadriga 2025" military exercises.
Indeed, Europe's military strength has taken on new urgency amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. The European Commission has proposed mobilizing up to €800 billion (US$863 billion) for defense, as tensions rise within the EU over Russia's actions. And ever since President Donald Trump took office again in January, the US has had a complex relationship with European allies regarding Russia and Ukraine, fueling further divisions.
This gallery looks into the European countries with the strongest militaries, highlighting their readiness to navigate these growing geopolitical challenges. Click on for the top 30 countries.