European Leaders Push For Unified Defence Force As US Dithers On Support For Ukraine | Exclusive
Fears of a potential US withdrawal, either through a policy shift under President Donald Trump or a broader NATO pullback, have driven the push for European self-reliance
French President Emmanuel Macron is spearheading an initiative to establish a common European Defence Force, aiming to raise €650 billion within the next three to five years. The move comes amidst uncertainty about the future of US support for Ukraine in the war with Russia and aims to bolster Europe’s defence capabilities.
Currently, the US provides 20 per cent of Ukraine’s military equipment, with Europe contributing the rest. Fears of a potential US withdrawal, either through a policy shift under President Donald Trump or a broader NATO pullback, have driven the push for European self-reliance.
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Several options are on the table, including a European peacekeeping force, a joint European army fighting alongside Ukrainian forces, and a shared European arms stockpile. Each option presents challenges, from potential Russian aggression to the need for increased defence spending and industrial cooperation among EU member states.
Macron has also proposed expanding the nuclear umbrella to cover all of Europe. However, with only France and the UK possessing nuclear arsenals after Brexit, questions remain about its effectiveness without NATO’s backing.
To finance the ambitious project, the European Commission is exploring the use of the European Investment Bank for defence projects and seeks to increase private sector involvement in European defence. A common EU defence budget is also under discussion. However, with Europe facing economic headwinds, securing contributions from member states prioritising domestic interests poses a significant challenge.
In a show of support, China has signalled its backing for Europe’s efforts, with Chinese leaders expressing their disagreement with US proposals for a ceasefire in Ukraine without Ukrainian involvement.
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