European leaders have pledged to bolster Europe’s defense capabilities in response to the United States’ threat to withdraw its security guarantees over Russia’s war in Ukraine. In historic emergency talks, the EU agreed to plans that could free up billions of euros for defense spending and shore up support for Kyiv.
The European Union has proposed mobilizing up to €800 billion ($862 billion) to bolster defense on the continent, with countries eligible for loans totaling up to €150 billion ($162 billion). This move aims to counterbalance Russia’s growing influence in Eastern Europe and alleviate concerns about collective defense under Article 5 of NATO.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned that negotiations for peace would only be possible with European involvement. The EU has pledged more than $33 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including €30.6 billion financed by Russian assets.
The shift in US policy raises alarm among allies, who fear that the Trump administration is aligning with Russia over its NATO members. Kyiv’s ambassador to the UK stated that the US actions are “destroying” the current world order.
European leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining transatlantic relations and committing to collective defense. The US’ commitment to NATO remains a vital component of Western security, and Brussels is expected to move forward with plans to bolster defense spending in the coming months.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/07/europe/europe-security-urkraine-defense-explainer-intl-hnk/index.html