Three Roadblocks on Europe’s Path to Defense Independence
Document Type
Article
Journal Title
The National Interest
Publication Date
2-13-2026
Abstract
As the world’s geopolitical elite gather later this week at the Munich Security Conference, many European analysts and policymakers will urge their governments to develop the means to defend themselves in response to the Trump administration’s policies over the past year.
First, there is a rift over values and sovereignty. The 2025 US National Security Strategy warned European allies of “civilizational erasure” as a result of immigration, vowing that the United States would “cultivate resistance” against mainstream political forces in Europe.
Second, President Donald Trump repeatedly demanded control of Greenland, the territory of NATO ally Denmark, and refused to rule out force to do so. After European allies stood by Denmark, Trump finally ruled out force, but he continued to insist that the United States must control Greenland.
Finally, the Trump administration has repeatedly demanded that European allies provide for their own security, with the United States in only a supporting role.
Recommended Citation
Davidson, J. W. (2026, February 13). Three roadblocks on Europe’s path to defense independence. The National Interest. https://nationalinterest.org/feature/three-roadblocks-on-europes-path-to-defense-independence
Comments
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