Why it matters:
The European security order is on shaky ground as the continent reckons with its heavy reliance on Washington. Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated skepticism toward NATO and hints at scaling back U.S. involvement have forced European policymakers to rethink their defense strategies. This comes at a time when tensions with Russia remain high, and the war in Ukraine has exposed vulnerabilities in Europe’s military preparedness.
What she’s saying:
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, addressing the European Parliament, stated: "We can no longer take peace in the European Union for granted. The time has come for Europe to take greater responsibility for its security, not through gradual steps but with a major leap in defense policy."
She emphasized that the continent's past assumptions about security were illusions, highlighting that Europe had become complacent under the U.S. security umbrella.
Key points:
- Europe can no longer rely entirely on the U.S. for security.
- The European Commission is pushing for increased military investment to close defense capability gaps.
- Trump’s NATO skepticism has prompted urgent discussions on European strategic autonomy.
- The EU is considering a new security fund alongside an increase in collective military spending.
Go deeper:
The shift in Europe’s security strategy comes amid broader global realignments. The U.S.’s reduced commitments under the “America First” doctrine have left European leaders reconsidering their long-term alliances.
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ahmad shirzadian
