During a recent address in Sweden, the EU’s defense commissioner, Andrius Kubilius, proposed the establishment of a combined military force within the European Union, potentially comprising 100,000 troops. This initiative aims to enhance Europe’s self-defense capabilities amid concerns about the reliability of U.S. military support. Kubilius emphasized the need for Europe to consider how to replace the “100,000-strong American standing military force,” which he described as the backbone of NATO’s military presence on the continent.
The suggestion arises in a context marked by rising tensions and uncertainty regarding U.S. foreign policy, particularly under former President Donald Trump, whose actions and statements, including those about Greenland, have prompted anxiety among European NATO allies regarding Washington’s commitment to their defense. In response, EU nations have begun to reassess and strengthen their military readiness against threats, particularly the aggressive posture of Russia.
Despite ongoing discussions about a unified European military force, progress has been slow, with many countries hesitant to cede control of their armed forces. The U.S. has consistently urged its European partners to assume greater responsibility for their own security, raising concerns about a potential shift of American military assets from Europe towards the escalating challenge posed by China.
Kubilius called for a decisive approach to address these pressing questions about Europe’s institutional defense readiness. He proposed the formation of a “European Security Council” comprising key nations, possibly including the UK, to facilitate faster decision-making about continental defense matters. This body would consist of approximately 10 to 12 permanent and rotational members tasked with discussing critical defense issues.
A primary focus of the proposed council, according to Kubilius, would involve strategizing on the ongoing war in Ukraine, aiming to ensure that the country does not succumb to defeat. He expressed the urgent need for a cohesive plan: “We need to have a clear answer – how is the EU going to change that scenario?” The establishment of a European Security Council, he argued, is essential for addressing such crucial challenges and reinforcing the continent’s defense posture in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
