The North Atlantic Treaty Framework and its interplay with the European Union
Report of Eurodefense working group 37 on Strategic European Defence
Although the European Union is a major economic and regulatory power, it remains militarily dependent on external security guarantees. To become a more autonomous strategic actor, Europe needs to develop stronger military capabilities, strengthen its defence industrial base, and improve policy coordination among member states.
The EU treaties already provide mechanisms that could eventually lead to a common defence, but the unanimity requirement makes progress slow and politically difficult. As a result, some states may seek flexible arrangements or intergovernmental initiatives to advance defence integration and incorporate like-minded countries such as the UK, Norway, Ukraine and Türkiye. At the same time, the development of a European pillar within NATO represents a complementary effort to rebalance responsibilities within the Alliance. Ultimately, close coordination between the EU and NATO will remain essential to avoid duplication, maximise synergies, and ensure the long-term security of Europe.
US nuclear deterrence ambiguity in Europe raises doubts about its future commitments; French and British forces offer limited but potentially devastating alternative deterrence against Russia, and their role in European deterrence and defence should grow.
Shifting transatlantic dynamics require European nations to assume primary responsibility for continental defence. Relying on the US security umbrella provides temporary stability but creates long-term strategic risks. While American public and congressional support for NATO remains solid at 60%, there is a growing, legitimate demand for equitable burden-sharing. To ensure long-term stability, Europe must transition from a dependent ally to a self-reliant security provider.
To achieve this, Europe must decisively build the capabilities and structures needed to anchor its own defence. This effort should be advanced along three complementary tracks:
- Inside the EU: build the military capabilities, defence industry, and CSDP (Common Security and Defence Policy) institutions required for true strategic autonomy.
- Within NATO: strengthen the Alliance's European pillar through a deliberate shift in capabilities and command responsibilities from the US to Europe.
- To promote the development of a European Defence Union as a gradual political and operational process, the aim of which is to build, on the basis of existing structures, a more coherent, responsive and effective Europe capable of ensuring its own security.
