Europe races to rearm Amid Trump’s NATO Doubts, Russian threat

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Friday, March 7th, 2025

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European leaders have launched an urgent rearmament initiative following U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to withdraw security guarantees and amid growing concerns over Russia’s war in Ukraine. At an emergency European Council meeting in Brussels, leaders outlined plans to boost defense spending and secure billions in military funding.
The European Commission proposed mobilizing up to €800 billion ($862 billion) to strengthen the continent’s security, with €150 billion ($162 billion) allocated as direct defense loans. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the move a “watershed moment,” emphasizing the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its defense.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that over $33 billion from sanctioned Russian assets will be allocated to Ukraine in 2025. He warned that Russia’s aggression presents an “existential challenge” to Europe, calling for enhanced military readiness.
Trump’s renewed skepticism toward NATO has raised alarms, particularly after he suggested that U.S. defense commitments depend on European nations increasing their military spending. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte reaffirmed that transatlantic ties remain vital to the alliance’s security.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky joined EU leaders in Brussels, emphasizing the need for European involvement in any peace deal. He outlined a proposal for an initial ceasefire, requiring Russia to halt airstrikes and military operations in the Black Sea. Zelensky will visit Saudi Arabia next week to discuss potential mediation efforts.
Russia dismissed the European ceasefire proposal, with the foreign ministry condemning the idea of deploying peacekeeping forces in Ukraine. As tensions rise, China’s envoy to Europe suggested that Trump’s shifting policies could push Europe to reconsider its approach toward China.
With NATO unity under strain and European security at a crossroads, leaders face the urgent task of fortifying defenses while seeking a path toward peace in Ukraine.