Urgent Call for European Defense Independence from Kaja Kallas

Mon Feb 02 2026 16:19:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign policy chief, urges European nations to take control of their defense capabilities, emphasizing the need for a unified European approach amidst shifting global power dynamics.

At a recent defense conference, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas highlighted the pressing need for Europe to enhance its defense capabilities and work more collaboratively within NATO. She remarked that as the US modifies its global role, Europe cannot afford to 'outsource its survival.' Kallas's comments come in response to recent tensions surrounding US-Europe relations, particularly after controversial statements made by NATO leader Mark Rutte. The sentiment echoes growing calls among European leaders to prioritize regional security independence.

Europe must step up urgently to improve its defense and make NATO more European to maintain its strength, because the US has shaken the transatlantic relationship to its foundation, the EU's foreign policy chief has warned.

Kaja Kallas emphasized that the US would continue to be Europe's partner and ally, but that no great power has ever outsourced its survival and survived. This statement comes amid rising tensions with the US, especially during the Trump administration when confrontational remarks about European independence were made.

Kallas's remarks were heightened by recent comments from NATO leader Mark Rutte, who stated that European lawmakers should not expect to defend themselves without the US support. In response, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot contended that Europeans must take control of their security, a sentiment shared by Kallas.

The shifting dynamics of the US-European relationship were evident when Kallas stated that Europe was no longer Washington's primary center of gravity. A transition that has been described as structural rather than temporary, urging European nations to work towards a more synchronized defense approach alongside NATO.

Recent discussions have suggested that European nations must be proactive in developing their defense strategies, especially as the US begins to lessen its military footprint on the continent.

NATO's original purpose was to ensure member nations' security against the Soviet Union; however, growing tensions with Russia are prompting discussions about redefining Europe's defense posture. The full-scale invasion of Ukraine has opened debates about NATO's expansion and the European Union's role in defense.

In conclusion, Kaja Kallas calls for a crucial shift in mindset for European nations to work collectively and build their defense independence without delays or excuses.