EU signals a new drive to buy European weapons and break its security dependency on the US

The European Union yesterday announced a new drive to break its security dependency on the United States, with a focus on buying more defense equipment in Europe rather than from suppliers across the Atlantic.

The EU’s executive branch unveiled its “Readiness 2030” security strategy with the threat of Russian aggression at the forefront of concerns. NATO intelligence estimates suggest that Russia could be capable of launching an attack in Europe again in three to five years.

Under the new strategy, member countries will be urged to buy much of its military equipment in Europe, working mostly with European suppliers – in some cases with EU help to cut prices and speed up orders.

They should only purchase equipment from abroad when costs, performance or supply delays make it preferable.

“The era of the peace dividend is long gone. The security architecture that we relied on can no longer be taken for granted,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. “We must invest in defense, strengthen our capabilities, and take a proactive approach to security.”