Europe’s leading military powers are working on a plan to gradually take over responsibility for the continent’s defense from the United States. This initiative, reported by the Financial Times, is a response to growing concerns about a potential U.S. withdrawal from NATO and the weakening of transatlantic ties, particularly in light of statements made by President Donald Trump.
Talks are underway between the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Nordic countries to develop a plan that will be presented to the U.S. administration ahead of the NATO summit in The Hague in June. The proposal includes increasing European defense spending and strengthening military capabilities to persuade the U.S. to accept a gradual transfer of responsibility, allowing Washington to shift its strategic focus to the Asia-Pacific region.
European officials acknowledge that achieving the level of military capability needed to replace most U.S. functions will require 5-10 years of intensive defense spending increases. Reducing dependence on the U.S. is seen as a key objective.
Some countries fear that engaging in discussions about taking over responsibilities could accelerate U.S. disengagement, while others remain skeptical about the feasibility of reaching an agreement with the Trump administration.
Currently, France and the UK are in talks about forming a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine in its war against Russia and to invest in European defense.
NATO officials emphasize that maintaining the alliance with reduced U.S. involvement would be simpler than creating an entirely new structure. Renegotiating existing military plans, capability targets, command structures, and Article 5 of the Washington Treaty would pose significant challenges.