Overview
- EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said NATO should become more European and pressed for a rapid build‑up of Europe’s defense capabilities and industry, arguing Washington’s focus is shifting elsewhere.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told the European Parliament that Europe cannot defend itself without the United States, warning that a standalone European system would be vastly costlier and would forfeit the American nuclear umbrella.
- France pushed back, with Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot insisting Europeans can and must take charge of their security, while former NATO envoy Muriel Domenach criticized messaging that highlights European weakness.
- Industry figures and EU officials called for long‑term procurement to scale production, as defense lobby leader Camille Grand labeled Rutte’s comments counterproductive and Commissioner Andrius Kubilius urged Europe to overcome dependence in logistics, long‑range strike, intelligence and space.
- NATO allies have pledged at least 5% of GDP for security by 2035, European defense outlays rose 19% from 2023 to 2024 to €343 billion with €381 billion projected for 2025, and debate over Europeanizing nuclear deterrence continues with Emmanuel Macron expected to address France’s doctrine.