The new alliance will act autonomously if NATO Article 5 is not triggered
Members of the European Parliament are proposing to establish a European Defence Union to provide Europe with an autonomous defence capability. Ukraine, alongside the UK and Norway, is envisioned as a key component of the new structure. This was reported by Ukrinform citing Reinier van Lanschot, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Lawmakers explain the need for an autonomous security alliance by citing ongoing Russian aggression and the instability of US political policy. As intended by its initiators, the union will operate in close coordination with NATO, reinforcing the alliance’s internal European potential.
The primary goal is to create a mechanism capable of defending continental Europe independently. This will allow for defence measures to be taken in cases where Article 5 of the NATO Treaty is not activated for any reason.
Military Potential and Ukraine’s Integration
The authors of the concept stress that the full operation of the structure is impossible without involving key non-EU partners. Ukraine is viewed as the strongest military force in the region, possessing advanced technology and unique combat experience.
“Over the last five years, a shift has taken place: while initially many EU countries thought we had to help Ukraine withstand this terrible war, over time this changed to an understanding that now we need help from Ukraine to become more technologically advanced and stronger ourselves,” said Reinier van Lanschot.
Among other options, the voluntary participation of Ukrainian military personnel in future European rapid reaction forces is being considered.
Structure and Decision-Making Mechanisms
To avoid bureaucratic delays and vetoes, the proposal suggests abandoning the requirement for unanimity. The governing body of the defence union would make decisions by a qualified majority vote.
The concept foresees building the system around six core elements, including a European Security Council, a European military headquarters, an intelligence centre, and a strategic support unit.
The project also includes a deterrence mechanism through the activation of Article 42.7 of the EU Treaty on mutual assistance. Similar initiatives regarding a European Security Council involving Ukraine were previously voiced at the level of the European Commission leadership.
Photo: freepik.com
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