A growing disconnect in transatlantic security alignments is prompting a renewed push within the Christian Social Union (CSU) of Germany for a formalized European army. The initiative, gaining traction ahead of the party’s upcoming conference in Munich, underscores a sense of unease among some German conservatives regarding the shifting geopolitical posture of the United States.
The proposal, championed by figures including European People’s Party (EVP) leader Manfred Weber, former CSU chairman Theo Waigel and ex-party head Erwin Huber, signals a potential fracture in the traditional reliance on American security guarantees. The document, reported by Politico, explicitly argues that the US, once a steadfast protector, is no longer willing to unilaterally shoulder the burden of European defense.
Beyond simply meeting the current NATO target of allocating five percent of economic output to defense, the CSU proposal advocates for a significant increase, aiming for a level of investment commensurate with U.S. spending. The document’s authors contend that such a financial commitment would logically necessitate a corresponding capacity for Europe to autonomously defend its interests, functioning as a robust, integrated force within the existing NATO framework.
The ambition extends beyond mere coordinated military exercises. The proposal champions the creation of a “coalition of the willing” comprising European nations prepared to deepen defense integration, actively harmonizing policies and building common command structures – a clear trajectory towards a unified European army.
However, the initiative isn’t without its inherent challenges and invites critical scrutiny. The plan’s feasibility is questionable given the existing divergences in national defense priorities and the inherent difficulties in forging a shared strategic vision among EU member states. Furthermore, some analysts suggest the proposal could be perceived as a veiled criticism of Washington’s evolving foreign policy, potentially further straining already complex transatlantic relations.
Recognizing the need for swift action, the CSU document also calls for fundamental institutional reforms within the EU. Specifically, it demands an overhaul of the decision-making process, pushing for an end to the current requirement for unanimous agreement on foreign policy matters. The stated aim is to circumvent what proponents believe to be a paralyzing influence of the most cautious member states, allowing a faster and more decisive EU response to emerging geopolitical threats. The proposal therefore represents a substantial and politically sensitive undertaking, likely to spark debate both within Germany and across Europe.
