Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden. Photo: cc.lu.
The European Union needs its own army to ensure stability and protection against the threats that may arise if former US President Donald Trump returns to power. This statement was made by Luxembourg’s Prime Minister Luc Frieden, who emphasised the need for a common army that could work together with NATO and ensure European security in the face of growing challenges. This was reported by the TimeUkraineIsrael portal with reference to the British edition of The Telegraph.
During his speech in Poland, Frieden called on European leaders to consider the possibility of gradually creating a unified armed force. He stressed that such a force should be integrated with NATO and capable of responding to challenges independently. The prime minister said that the situation in Ukraine, where Russia’s aggression continues, has become an “alarming signal” that prompts a rethinking of Europe’s common defence policy.
Confrontation between European leaders and new threats
European countries have long discussed the idea of creating a joint military force, but political barriers and disagreements among EU members have repeatedly stood in the way. In particular, France supports the idea of a European army, but the Baltic states and some other EU members fear that such a force could undermine the role of NATO, which has historically provided security for Europe. Prior to its exit from the EU, Britain also actively blocked any plans for a common army, considering them a threat to the sovereignty of member states.
Luc Frieden, however, called for a “coalition of the willing”, where several countries could join forces to create the foundations of a European military. He proposed first pooling some of the military resources to increase the effectiveness of European defence, while leaving states with the right to make important decisions on the use of troops.
Changing global situation and new security requirements for Europe
Frieden reminded that the world order is changing, and Europe must be prepared to defend its values and democracy on its own, especially given that the upcoming US presidential election could lead to major changes in foreign policy. The Republican Party, to which Donald Trump belongs, has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the level of defence spending by European countries. If Trump wins, the EU risks losing some of its support from the United States, particularly in terms of arms supplies and other assistance to Ukraine.
French President Emmanuel Macron also stressed the need to strengthen the EU’s defence capabilities and its ability to act independently. Macron called for a united military effort by European countries after Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine begins in 2022, stressing that the EU must be ready to respond to global challenges.
A call for consistent steps
While the creation of a single army may remain a long-term goal, Frieden emphasises the need for gradual steps. He noted that joining forces to ensure common defence is critical in today’s environment. “Today’s world does not guarantee us the security we need. We must begin the journey to create a European army that will become a reliable partner for our allies in North America,” Frieden concluded.
Europe is facing a choice: either to remain dependent on external allies or to create its own defence mechanism that will ensure the continent’s stability and security in the face of global instability.
