U.S. pulls back – now Europe must build its own defense strength
As the United States steps back, Europe faces a tough choice: build a joint defense force, strengthen cooperation, or rely on an increasingly uncertain NATO. Meanwhile, experts warned in the Swedish daily Göteborgs-Posten on February 17 that Russia could exploit the situation in any peace settlement.
"If the conflict is frozen, they will start rebuilding and preparing for new offensives," said Tony Ingesson, an associate professor of political science at Lund University.
For a long time, Europe has relied on the U.S. for security. But with clear signals that Europe must take greater responsibility—and as it finds itself excluded from U.S.-Russia peace negotiations—European leaders have gathered in Paris for an emergency meeting.
According to Ulrika Mörth, a professor of political science specializing in European politics at Stockholm University and affiliated with SCGG, Europe has no quick solutions if the U.S. scales back its involvement. Building a strong, independent defense requires both time and money, and European nations remain divided on the best approach
"Right now, the focus is on reducing dependence on the U.S. and gradually strengthening Europe's own defense capacity. But at this moment, Europe has no choice but to hold on to NATO and other existing alliances," Mörth said.
