EU Unveils $800 Billion Defense Strategy to Address Security Threats
The EU Commission's White Paper focuses on military readiness, capability gaps, and reduced reliance on the U.S., while facing criticism for omitting warnings about dependence.
- The EU Commission has presented a White Paper outlining a new defense strategy to address growing threats, particularly from Russia.
- The strategy identifies seven key areas for investment, including air and missile defense, drone systems, and electronic warfare.
- The plan proposes mobilizing 800 billion euros, including 150 billion in EU loans and exemptions from strict debt rules.
- Critics in the European Parliament argue the strategy fails to adequately address Europe's dependence on U.S. military components.
- Earlier drafts of the White Paper included warnings about U.S. reliance, but these were removed following intervention by Ursula von der Leyen's cabinet.
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