The President of the European Commission has declared that Europe must take primary responsibility for its own security and defense, stressing that the continent can no longer rely entirely on external allies to guarantee its safety. The remarks reflect a growing shift in European strategic thinking amid rising global instability and prolonged conflicts on the continent’s borders.
Speaking amid ongoing debates over defense spending, Ukraine, and transatlantic relations, the Commission President emphasized that Europe’s security environment has fundamentally changed. She noted that threats are becoming more complex, ranging from conventional military aggression to cyberattacks, hybrid warfare, and economic coercion.
A Strategic Wake-Up Call
The Commission President described the current moment as a “strategic wake-up call” for Europe. She argued that while alliances remain important, Europe must be capable of acting independently when necessary, especially in times of crisis when external partners may be overstretched or politically constrained.
According to her remarks, recent geopolitical shocks—including Russia’s war in Ukraine—have exposed Europe’s long-standing dependence on others for defense capabilities, intelligence, and military readiness.
Not a Break with Allies
European officials were quick to clarify that the message does not signal a rejection of NATO or the United States. Instead, the Commission President framed European self-reliance as a way to strengthen alliances rather than weaken them, making Europe a more credible and capable partner.
“A stronger Europe makes the alliance stronger,” she noted, arguing that burden-sharing is essential for long-term stability within NATO.
Boosting Defense Capabilities
The statement comes as the EU accelerates initiatives to:
- Increase joint defense procurement
- Strengthen Europe
