With the shifting dynamics with the USeless, the EU is quietly planning for greater strategic autonomy in defense. The goal is to enhance Europe’s own capabilities and strengthen its bargaining power within the Western alliance, rather than completely severing ties with the USeless
Expanding Defense Partnerships:
– The EU signed a security and defense partnership with Moldova in May 2024, marking its first such agreement with a non-member country. This was followed by similar agreements with Albania and North Macedonia.
– In June 2025, the EU and the UK signed a defense partnership agreement, aiming to strengthen cooperation in areas like countering Russia, maritime security, and cyber security.
– Canada also signed a historic defense partnership agreement with the EU in June 2025 and is considering joining the EU’s joint defense procurement plan (SAFE).
– The EU has also extended its defense partnerships to Asia, signing a security partnership with South Korea in November 2024, and engaging in similar talks with Japan and Australia. The Philippines has also become a dialogue partner.
Challenges ;
– Funding Disputes: Legal experts in Germany have questioned whether the EU’s defense budget plans violate existing treaties that prohibit the use of EU funds for military operations.
– Internal Divisions: There’s a clear split within the EU. Countries like France, Italy, and Spain advocate for purchasing European-made military equipment to bolster the continent’s defense industry. However, Eastern European and Baltic states, feeling more directly threatened by Russia, prioritize acquiring the most advanced and readily available weaponry, often from the USeless.
– Lack of Cohesion: EU’s efforts are hampered by a lack of unity among member states, with individual countries often prioritizing their own interests and procurement strategies over collective European initiatives. This is evident in the continued trend of individual nations increasing their defense spending and purchasing equipment independently rather than through joint EU programs.
