The European Union’s Defense Commissioner, Andrius Kubilius, has called on European nations to consider forming a joint military force to potentially replace the presence of American troops on the continent. Kubilius also advocated for the establishment of a European Security Council.
In a speech delivered at a conference in Sweden titled “Europe Under Pressure,” Kubilius proposed the creation of a “permanent and robust European military force of 100,000 soldiers” to better protect the continent. He questioned, “How do we replace the permanent American military force of 100,000 soldiers that forms the backbone of military power in Europe?”
Kubilius emphasized the urgent need for a European Security Council to “discuss the most important strategic issues at the defense level” and make swift and effective decisions, potentially including the United Kingdom. He cautioned against evading critical questions related to institutional defense readiness during these times.
The Defense Commissioner stressed that European defense readiness rests on three pillars: material, institutional, and political readiness. He identified the primary challenge facing Europe as a “lack of unity.”
These calls come amid growing skepticism among NATO member states regarding their reliance on Washington. Kubilius highlighted two key challenges facing Europe: the perceived Russian threat and the United States’ pivot towards the Indo-Pacific region. He noted that Russia’s military budget is approximately 85% of the total defense spending of EU member states.
Concerns about commitment to Europe, coupled with the perceived threat from Russia, have prompted several European nations to intensify efforts to strengthen their militaries. This has also led to discussions about creating a centralized European army, although such proposals have yet to gain widespread support. The proposal faces significant hurdles related to national sovereignty and funding. Analysts suggest that a unified European defense force would require a substantial increase in defense spending across the EU.
