Europe can afford to defend itself without US but needs more coordination: study
Europe needs to invest approximately €250 billion annually in its defense to ensure its security independent of US support. According to a study by Bruegel and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, this level of investment, equivalent to 1.5% of the EU's GDP, would enable Europe to mobilize around 300,000 soldiers to defend against potential threats like Russia.
The study emphasizes that while Europe possesses the financial capacity for this increased defense spending, improved coordination and joint procurement among national armed forces are crucial. This call to action comes amid growing pressure from the US, particularly from figures like Donald Trump, urging European nations to bolster their military capabilities and meet NATO's defense spending target of 2% of GDP, reflecting concerns about the US's long-term commitment to European security.
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Europe needs to invest approximately €250 billion annually in its defense to ensure its security independent of US support. According to a study by Bruegel and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, this level of investment, equivalent to 1.5% of the EU's GDP, would enable Europe to mobilize around 300,000 soldiers to defend against potential threats like Russia.
The study emphasizes that while Europe possesses the financial capacity for this increased defense spending, improved coordination and joint procurement among national armed forces are crucial. This call to action comes amid growing pressure from the US, particularly from figures like Donald Trump, urging European nations to bolster their military capabilities and meet NATO's defense spending target of 2% of GDP, reflecting concerns about the US's long-term commitment to European security.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
