European nations are seriously considering options for security cooperation that exclude the participation of the United States, marking a significant shift in the continent's defense strategy. According to Operative Information Center-OMM, citing Politico, this move has gained momentum amid deepening disagreements and strategic uncertainty following the transition to US President Donald Trump's administration.
The report highlights that high-ranking European officials no longer view the United States as an inherently reliable trade partner or security ally. Within diplomatic circles, there are extensive discussions regarding the potential consequences of a long-term decoupling from Washington and the necessity of enhancing the continent's independent self-defense capabilities. While the proposed new formats do not entirely rule out cooperation with Washington, officials emphasize that future relations will no longer be viewed as automatic, but rather as a partnership based on specific conditions and mutual interests.
This strategic pivot comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension and a growing push for "strategic autonomy" within the European Union. Historically, European security has been anchored by the NATO alliance and the post-WWII security umbrella provided by the United States. However, recent shifts in American foreign policy have prompted European leaders to accelerate plans for the European Defense Fund and other intra-continental military initiatives to ensure regional stability without sole reliance on external powers.
