This report provides an overview of the evolution of the EU as a space actor, focusing on the period 1995-2025. It is shown that the EU's space activities have gone through several phases, with shifting priorities on science and technology, industry and societal benefits, as well as defence and security. From a policy perspective, a shift has taken place towards an increased focus on defence and security. In the context of international space fora, the position of the EU has remained relatively consistent with a clear basis in the peaceful use of outer space in accordance with the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. The EU regards itself a global space power with significant space assets benefiting not only Europe, but also other parts of the world. Considering the increased global dependence on space-based infrastructure, the EU emphasises the importance of promoting responsible behaviour in outer space while also assuring that EU systems have a certain level of resilience. In summary, the EU's engagement in space diplomacy and security questions has increased along with the growing societal reliance on space. For the EU, more is at stake than ever before. The EU Space Strategy for Security and Defence from 2023 has consolidated the shift in European space policy from civil and commercial perspectives to strategic security and defence perspectives.