European Council President Antonio Costa has called on the European Union to carefully consider the implications of the United States’ updated National Security Strategy. During a recent event in Paris, Costa emphasized the need for Europe to adapt to the evolving dynamics of international alliances in the post-World War II era.
Costa voiced strong criticism regarding the strategy’s assertions about freedom of expression being censored in Europe and its concerns over the perceived rise of nationalistic European parties. He stated, “We need to focus on building a Europe that understands how much the relationships between allies and the alliances that followed the Second World War have changed.”
“What we cannot accept is this threat of interference in the political life of Europe,” Costa asserted. He elaborated, “The United States cannot replace European citizens in deciding who is right and who is wrong, nor can the United States replace Europe in its vision of freedom of expression.” He further added that “our history has taught us that there is no freedom of expression without freedom of information.”
Costa suggested that Europe should prepare to potentially assume a leadership role within NATO in the future, potentially lessening its reliance on the United States. He implied that Europe needs to become more independent and self-reliant in matters of its own security and political direction.
The remarks highlight growing tensions between Europe and the US, particularly concerning differing views on international relations, freedom of speech, and the role of national sovereignty. The European Union is expected to formally respond to the US National Security Strategy in the coming weeks.
