Defense Commissioner urges EU to consider creating a combined military force. Kubilius wants a “European Security Council”
Andrius Kubilius, European Commissioner for Defense Photo: Wiktor Dabkowski / Zuma Press / Profimedia
Member states should consider whether to establish a combined military force that could eventually replace US troops in Europe, European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius said on Sunday, according to AFP.
The official floated the idea of creating a “strong, permanent European military force of 100,000 troops” as a possible option to better protect the continent.
“How are we going to replace the US standing military force of 100,000 troops, which is the backbone of military power in Europe?” he asked in a speech in Sweden.
The suggestion comes in the context of concerns raised in NATO by the statements of US President Donald Trump regarding a possible takeover of Greenland.
Concerns about the current leader's attitude in the White House have already led allies to step up efforts to strengthen their national militaries in the face of the threat posed by Russia.
The idea of establishing a European army has been floating around for years, but has not gained traction because nations are wary of giving up control of their armies.
The US has pressed its European allies to take more responsibility for their own security.
“In times like these, we should not avoid the most pressing questions about our institutional defense preparedness,” added Kubilius, a former prime minister of Lithuania.
Kubilius proposes the creation of a “European Security Council”
In his speech, the European commissioner called for the creation of a “European Security Council” made up of key powers, possibly including Britain, which could help the continent make decisions about its own defense more quickly.
“The European Security Council could be composed of key permanent members alongside other rotating members,” he said.
“In total, around 10-12 members, with the task of discussing the most important issues in defense,” Kubilius added.
The first objective of such a body, the European defense commissioner believes, should be to try to change the dynamics of the war in Ukraine to ensure that Kiev does not lose.
“We need to have a clear answer – how will the EU change this scenario?” he added.
