The EU urges member countries to use a proposed €150 billion defense loan program to purchase military equipment made in Europe rather than relying on U.S. suppliers. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the loans should boost the EU’s defense industry by funding purchases from European producers and encouraging joint buying among nations. Currently, most EU NATO members source two-thirds of their defense materials from American companies. The plan aims to enhance security self-sufficiency amid U.S. warnings and lessons from Ukraine’s conflict. France seeks stricter rules for exclusively using funds within Europe, while Spain prefers grants over loans. The loan program, part of an €800 billion security package including budget rule changes, will be finalized next week.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/eu-defense-spending-us-ukraine-8cbd54ba81c086aa8e47ea3a0971febb