Kaja Kallas Urges Europe to Reinvent Its Defense Strategy Amidst US Tensions

Thu Jan 29 2026 11:54:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, has called for Europe to urgently enhance its defense capabilities, emphasizing a shift away from reliance on the United States.

In a recent defense conference, Kaja Kallas warned that the transatlantic relationship has been shaken, urging Europe to improve its own defenses to maintain NATO's strength. Acknowledging ongoing tensions with the US and suggesting that Europe can no longer rely solely on American support, Kallas emphasized the need for a united European strategy for security.

Europe must step up urgently to improve its defence and make NATO more European to maintain its strength, because the US has shaken the transatlantic relationship to its foundation, EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned.

Kallas stated that while the US will continue to be a partner and ally, no great power has ever outsourced its survival and survived. Tensions with the US flared when former President Donald Trump threatened to take over Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.

Her remarks followed those of NATO leader Mark Rutte, who caused backlash by asserting that European lawmakers should not believe Europe could defend itself without US support. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot countered, asserting the necessity for Europe to take control of its own security, a sentiment echoed by Kallas.

She pointed out that during the Trump administration, Europe became no longer Washington's primary center of gravity, calling for a cultural shift from national-focused thinking to collective European action. With the US's transition away from Europe deemed structural rather than temporary, Kallas urged the 23 nations that are both EU and NATO members to unify their efforts for defense.

Highlighting the tectonic shift in relations underscored by recent US-European rifts, she insisted on building a distinct European defense identity. Kallas acknowledged that increased military spending is necessary, drawing attention to NATO's long-standing commitment to ensure member security in the face of challenges, particularly from a resurgent Russia.

In summary, the EU's path towards strengthening its own defense capabilities amid shifting global dynamics is crucial for Europe's future security strategy.