European Leaders Push for Defense Independence as NATO Faces Uncertainty

Donald Trump's stance on Ukraine and NATO raises doubts about U.S. commitments, prompting Europe to consider new defense strategies.

Donald Trump's refusal to guarantee U.S. support for a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine has heightened concerns over NATO's reliability.
European leaders, including France's Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Friedrich Merz, are advocating for greater defense autonomy and exploring the formation of a joint European military force.
The concept of a European rapid reaction force, potentially growing into a larger military alliance, is gaining traction as leaders aim to reduce dependence on the U.S.
Britain, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is working to rebuild its role in European security discussions, coordinating closely with France and other nations on defense initiatives.
NATO's future is increasingly questioned, with leaders debating whether to reform the alliance or shift toward independent European defense strategies.