The European Union (EU) has acknowledged that U.S. President Donald Trump was correct in criticizing its defense spending, urging member states to increase their investments for Europe's security.
"President Trump was right when he said we haven’t been spending enough. It’s time to invest," Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said during a speech in Brussels today. "The U.S. is our strongest ally, and it must remain so."
Kallas referred to Trump’s recent criticism of NATO allies for falling short on defense spending, warning that the U.S. could reconsider its security commitments if the situation does not improve. On January 7, Trump called for NATO members to allocate 5% of GDP to defense budgets, up from the current 2% guideline. The EU, composed of 27 member states, includes 23 countries that are also part of NATO.
"The message from the EU to the U.S. is clear: we must do more for defense and shoulder our fair share of responsibility for Europe’s security," Kallas emphasized.
The EU has gradually increased defense budgets following Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine in February 2022. However, Brussels admits it still has significant work to do to match Moscow’s defense production capabilities.
Kallas warned that Russia will continue to pose a threat to the EU unless the bloc invests adequately in defense. "Many of our national intelligence agencies believe Russia could test the EU’s defensive capabilities in the next three to five years. Who else do we need to listen to?" she added.
EU leaders are set to meet in Brussels in February, joined by the United Kingdom, a former EU member, and NATO leadership to discuss strengthening Europe’s defense posture. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte last month urged European nations to increase their defense spending to effectively deter Russia.
Kallas and the EU’s High Representative for Defense Policy, Andrius Kubilius, are expected to present proposals in March aimed at fortifying the bloc’s defense industry.
(Sources: AFP, Reuters)
