EU Takes Defense into Its Own Hands: Von der Leyen Announces Reducing Dependence on the US
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security, and the demands from Washington on this matter are justified.
At a press conference marking the results of her first 100 days after re-election, von der Leyen noted that the balance in relations with the US needs to be reconsidered.
"The US and the EU remain allies, but that does not mean that the model of the last 25-30 years is still relevant. We must fulfill our responsibilities," emphasized the head of the European Commission.
The issue of Europe’s defense independence is becoming increasingly important amid growing uncertainty in transatlantic relations. Von der Leyen stated that the position of Donald Trump's administration does not undermine the allied relationship, but European countries must reduce their military dependence on the US.
When asked about the possibility of "reducing risks" in relations with Washington, similar to China, she categorically rejected such an idea, stating that the EU and the US remain strategic partners, and their relationship is fundamentally different from that with Beijing.
Europe Prepares for a New Phase in Defense Von der Leyen has not yet met with Trump since his return to the White House but confirmed that contacts between the parties are already taking place and expressed confidence in an upcoming personal meeting.
EU-US relations deteriorated during Trump’s first presidential term when he repeatedly criticized Europe for insufficient defense spending and trade imbalances. Neither Brussels' diplomatic initiatives nor public statements of willingness to cooperate were able to change the situation.
At the extraordinary defense summit on March 6, von der Leyen announced the creation of an €800 billion fund to cover Europe’s security costs and reduce dependence on US military support.
This step signals that the EU is ready to move toward strategic autonomy, even if it requires revising existing cooperation mechanisms with NATO and Washington.
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