In a compelling speech at a defense conference, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas underscored the pressing need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities and reduce its dependency on the United States. She asserted that the transatlantic alliance has been shaken to its core, necessitating a collaborative approach among European nations to secure their collective safety.
Kallas pointed out, No great power has ever outsourced its survival and survived, indicating that Europe must urgently transform its defense strategies to maintain its strength. Her comments follow increasing tensions with the US, notably during the Trump administration, which has shifted the continental focus away from Europe as the primary shield of security.
The EU's foreign policy chief criticized sentiments expressed by NATO leaders, who suggested that European hopes for autonomous defense remain unrealistic. This was echoed by the French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, who contended that Europeans need to assume charge of their security.
Additionally, Kallas highlighted the changing dynamics of US-European relations, noting structural elements that point toward a diminished US presence in Europe. The call for a distinctive European defense pillar has gained momentum, as recent geopolitical tensions, including controversies surrounding Greenland and NATO spending, have illustrated the evolving nature of transatlantic alliances.
Moreover, both Kallas and EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius echoed the sentiment that a robust, independent European defense framework is essential in the face of threats. With conflicts lingering in Ukraine and a more assertive Russia, the urgency for Europe to act decisively has never been clearer.
Kallas pointed out, No great power has ever outsourced its survival and survived, indicating that Europe must urgently transform its defense strategies to maintain its strength. Her comments follow increasing tensions with the US, notably during the Trump administration, which has shifted the continental focus away from Europe as the primary shield of security.
The EU's foreign policy chief criticized sentiments expressed by NATO leaders, who suggested that European hopes for autonomous defense remain unrealistic. This was echoed by the French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, who contended that Europeans need to assume charge of their security.
Additionally, Kallas highlighted the changing dynamics of US-European relations, noting structural elements that point toward a diminished US presence in Europe. The call for a distinctive European defense pillar has gained momentum, as recent geopolitical tensions, including controversies surrounding Greenland and NATO spending, have illustrated the evolving nature of transatlantic alliances.
Moreover, both Kallas and EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius echoed the sentiment that a robust, independent European defense framework is essential in the face of threats. With conflicts lingering in Ukraine and a more assertive Russia, the urgency for Europe to act decisively has never been clearer.
