Tomas Tobé

The committee's final report was adopted during this week's plenary, calling for greater determination in countering Russia's attempts to interfere in elections, undermine institutions, and destabilize societies across Europe.

Defending democracy has therefore become an essential part of Europe's security infrastructure, says MEP Thomas Tobe, author of the report.

Because it is very clear that defense of democracy is no longer a side issue of European politics.

It's actually a core part of our security.