Europe needs a “massive” defence spending boost, Ursula von der Leyen has said.

European nations are spending on average 1.9 per cent of GDP on defence, the EU Commission president said, pointing out the contrast to Russia’s 9 per cent spend.

Speaking in the European parliament, Mrs von der Leyen said member states had five years to address the disparity.

“There is something wrong in this equation. Our defence spending must increase,” she said, as she warned that freedom for Europe would be expensive.

“Our fight for freedom may look different to generations past. But the stakes are just as high. And, honourable members, these freedoms will not come for free,” Mrs von der Leyen said in her address.

“It will mean making difficult choices. It will mean massive investment in our security and prosperity. And above all it will mean staying united and true to our values.”