The European Union’s ambitious green transition is critically dependent on secure access to critical raw materials. Vanadium, a metal traditionally used in high-strength steel, has emerged as a pivotal element for long-duration energy storage via vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). This paper conducts a comprehensive strategic analysis of the global vanadium market from the EU's perspective, employing a multi-methodological framework including PESTEL, Porter’s 5+2 Forces, value chain analysis, and an integrated SWOT-CAME strategy. Findings reveal extreme supply concentration, with approximately 90% of global production originating from China, Russia, and South Africa, resulting in a highly oligopolistic market (HHI ~5000) and significant price volatility. While over 85% of demand remains tied to the steel sector, VRFBs are projected to capture up to 17% of vanadium consumption by 2030, contingent on reducing electrolyte costs, which constitute 30-50% of VRFB capital expenditure. The EU exhibits significant weaknesses, including a near-total absence of primary mining and refining capacity. However, strengths exist in regulatory frameworks (e.g., the Critical Raw Materials Act), R&D leadership in VRFB technology, and circular economy potential through slag and catalyst recovery. The study concludes that a resilient EU strategy must prioritize circular supply chains, selective upstream partnerships with geopolitically stable allies, investment in battery-grade refining hubs, and targeted policy instruments such as strategic stockpiles and offtake agreements. This integrated approach is essential to de-risk vanadium supply for grid-scale storage and low-carbon infrastructure, thereby supporting the EU’s energy security and decarbonization objectives.