Europe’s top military powers, including the UK, France, Germany, and the Nordics, are discussing plans to take on more responsibility for the continent’s defense amid concerns over a potential U.S. withdrawal from NATO under Trump.

They aim to present a structured transition plan to Washington before NATO’s June summit, proposing increased European defense spending and capability-building over the next 5–10 years.

While some European capitals fear accelerating U.S. disengagement, others see an emerging “European pillar” within NATO, with the UK and France already leading independent defense efforts, particularly in support of Ukraine, the Financial Times has reported.

Written by B.C. Begley