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The geopolitical landscape of Europe continues to shift. The ongoing war in Ukraine, growing instability in the Middle East, intensified hybrid threats, and rising concerns over economic security have highlighted the urgent need for stronger European defence cooperation. EU member states are significantly increasing their military budgets, and proposals for joint procurement, operational readiness, and a coordinated approach to capability development have moved higher on the agenda. Further steps towards a more integrated European defence approach are expected in the context of the upcoming NATO summit and the ongoing debate on increased defence spending targets, underlining the new urgency for credible deterrence.
These developments are further shaped by shifting dynamics in the transatlantic relationship. Since Donald Trump’s return to the White House, transatlantic security relations have entered a new phase. The US has scaled back its commitments within NATO, reaffirming its “America First” stance and making future support for European allies more conditional. As a result, the EU is under increased pressure to strengthen its own defence capabilities and move towards greater strategic autonomy.
In this context, Germany and the Netherlands play a leading role in shaping a more cohesive European response. As close EU and NATO partners, continue to coordinate closely in key policy areas—defence being one of them. With increasing threats in the digital space and repeated cyberattacks originating from Russia, both countries are pushing for improved joint resilience and stronger European cooperation. In light of upcoming NATO decisions to raise defence spending targets, further steps towards a more integrated European defence approach are expected.
