In a pivotal EU Today conference moderated by Gary Cartwright, publisher of EU Today, panellists gathered to discuss Europe’s defence readiness against a backdrop of global turmoil.
The participants—Askold S. Lozynskyj, New York attorney and president of the Ukrainian Free University Foundation, and Dmytro Shrukro, a journalist with Ukrinform and former military officer—delivered candid perspectives on the security challenges facing Europe.
With Donald Trump’s recent re-election in the United States, the conversation addressed the potential implications for Europe’s security and the need for a more robust European defence posture.
Europe’s Defence in Focus Amid Global Threats
The conference, timed at a critical moment in global affairs, explored how Europe could respond to escalating threats. Russia’s war in Ukraine continues unabated, fuelling anxieties in Eastern Europe, while rising instability in Israel and North Korean involvement in global matters further complicate the landscape. Trump’s re-election brings an expectation for Europe to shoulder a larger share of its defence responsibilities, a stance he firmly advocated during his previous term.
Lozynskyj, a regular EU Today contributor, highlighted the new geopolitical dynamics under Trump. “Trump has made it clear that Europe must take charge of its defence,” he asserted, adding that Europe cannot continue to rely on the United States for security.
He argued that while NATO has set a target of 2% of GDP for member defence spending, a figure that some countries have achieved, Europe will need to raise this commitment to 3% to secure U.S. support under Trump’s administration.
The Debate on Defence Spending and Commitment
The discussion moved to Europe’s mixed record on defence spending. Lozynskyj pointed out that while some countries, such as Poland and the Baltic states, have consistently met or exceeded NATO spending requirements, others have lagged.
Belgium, for example, spends below the 2% target and lacks a fully functional military. Germany, despite having Europe’s largest economy, has also been criticised for its low defence contributions, although it has recently committed to increased spending.
Shrukro, a Ukrainian journalist with Ukrinform, shared his country’s unique perspective on the importance of European security.
“The conflict in Ukraine isn’t only a Ukrainian issue; it’s a European issue,” he stressed, noting that Europe’s security architecture relies on mutual support among NATO allies. He argued that Europe must view defence spending not merely as an obligation to NATO but as an essential investment in its stability and resilience.
Shrukro observed that Trump’s demands for increased defence contributions, while challenging, are an opportunity for Europe to strengthen its own capabilities. “European countries must realise that this is about their security first and foremost,” he added, warning that failure to meet defence targets could weaken the continent’s security infrastructure.
Trump’s Approach and European Defence Autonomy
The Trump administration’s approach to international alliances often emphasises burden-sharing, and his stance on Europe’s defence reflects a desire for European allies to contribute more significantly. Lozynskyj remarked on Trump’s transactional foreign policy approach, noting that European leaders must frame their defence initiatives in ways that resonate with Trump’s priorities.
Lozynskyj argued that accommodating Trump’s demands, while difficult, might secure continued U.S. support. “Europe has the resources; it’s a matter of political will,” he asserted. However, Lozynskyj also cautioned that Trump’s approach is not solely rooted in strategic considerations, suggesting that his focus on burden-sharing may reflect personal ambitions as much as national interest.
The conversation also touched on the idea of European strategic autonomy—a vision for a self-sufficient European defence that could reduce reliance on the United States. Shrukro pointed out that achieving this level of autonomy would require substantial investment and coordination among EU member states. “Building a unified European defence capability is challenging, but it’s essential,” he said, noting that while NATO remains the backbone of Europe’s defence, European initiatives could play a complementary role.
Supporting Ukraine as a Key European Security Issue
Both panellists emphasised the critical importance of supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Shrukro underscored that Ukraine’s struggle is not merely a bilateral conflict but a frontline battle with implications for all of Europe. He warned that failure to support Ukraine could embolden Russia and lead to further destabilisation in Eastern Europe. “Europe’s security is linked to Ukraine’s resilience,” Shrukro said, adding that NATO’s credibility hinges on its willingness to support member states and allies under threat.
Lozynskyj echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Europe’s continued assistance to Ukraine is a strategic necessity. “Allowing Russia to gain ground in Ukraine would not only weaken Europe but could set a dangerous precedent,” he remarked, highlighting that countries like the Baltics could be next if Europe does not reinforce its commitment to defence. According to Lozynskyj, Europe must see its defence obligations as extending beyond national borders, encompassing the defence of democratic allies like Ukraine.
The Strategic Imperative of Defence Unity
The panellists agreed on the need for Europe to address its defence challenges through unified action. While NATO’s deterrent capabilities remain essential, there is a growing recognition that Europe must increase its contributions to match the scope of current threats. Shrukro emphasised that European leaders must move past internal debates on spending and act decisively, noting that the political costs of inaction are far greater than the financial investments required.
As the conference concluded, Cartwright summarised the discussion with a call for urgent action. “Europe’s security requires more than just rhetoric; it demands concrete investment and a strategic vision,” he said, emphasising that the security landscape is shifting and that Europe’s response must be both immediate and sustained.
A Future Defined by Collective Security
The EU Today conference underscored the challenges and opportunities that Europe faces in reshaping its defence posture amid global turbulence.
The insights from Lozynskyj and Shrukro pointed to the urgent need for Europe to bridge its defence gaps and prepare for a future in which it plays a more prominent role in its security. The Trump administration’s stance on European defence should not be seen as an ultimatum but rather as a catalyst for Europe to advance towards a more resilient and autonomous security framework.
For Europe, addressing its defence obligations is not merely a political issue but a practical necessity in a world marked by rising authoritarianism and regional conflicts. As the panellists concluded, the time has come for Europe to take decisive steps towards safeguarding its future and strengthening its role within the transatlantic alliance.
