EU Lawmaker Stier Urges Europe to Assume Greater Defense Responsibility

European Parliament member Davor Ivo Stier said that the recent NATO summit in Ankara confirmed the transatlantic alliance remains solid, but the United States is now urging Europe to take more responsibility for its own security. He noted that the €70 billion aid package for Ukraine is not new money, as the EU had already earmarked those funds through existing instruments, and the summit simply reaffirmed the commitment.

Stier highlighted ongoing budget negotiations, with the current financial perspective ending in 2027 and discussions already underway for the 2028‑2034 period. He stressed that Europe must reduce dependence on external powers for energy, technology and defence, and develop strategic autonomy to protect its territory. The remarks also referenced Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, describing it as driven by Russian imperialism, and criticized Spain’s plan to raise its defence spending to 5 % of GDP.

Overall, Stier called for a shift in the distribution of responsibilities within the alliance, arguing that Europe can no longer rely solely on the United States for its security needs.