Von der Leyen Calls for Greater European Security Responsibility, Proposes Alternative to NATO

(MENAFN) European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has argued for the need to create an alternative to NATO, emphasizing that Europe must take on more responsibility for its own security. Her comments come at a time of increasing US pressure for greater defense spending from NATO members, uncertainty surrounding future support for Ukraine, and concerns over a potential shift in Washington's commitment to European defense.

“NATO remains the foundation of our defense. But it is evident that we need a pan-European defense,” von der Leyen stated during a press briefing in Lithuania on Sunday.

She further explained that modern warfare demands a scale, technology, and coordination that no single nation can manage alone, calling for increased funding, “both public and private.”

Von der Leyen announced that the European Commission’s strategy for the future of European defense would be presented to EU leaders by mid-March.

Prior to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel were among the strongest proponents of establishing a European Union army.

MENAFN11022025000045017092ID1109192128