US Troop Withdrawal Dominates EPC Meeting; Europe Debates Defense Reliance
The US announcement of troop withdrawals from Germany dominated the EPC meeting, prompting European leaders to discuss their security dependence. Leaders like Kaja Kallas and Ursula von der Leyen called for stronger European defense. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated US disappointment over Europe’s response to the US-Israeli war on Iran.
The announcement of US troop withdrawals from Germany overshadowed the start of the European Political Community (EPC) meeting on Monday, shifting focus to Europe’s security dependence on the United States. This marks the first time European leaders have met since the White House’s sudden announcement.
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas called the timing a «surprise» but noted the debate over US presence isn't new. She emphasized the need to strengthen NATO’s European pillar, stating American troops protect both European and US interests. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen also urged greater European defense independence and faster military production.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated Europeans have «received the message» of US disappointment regarding their response to the US-Israeli war on Iran. He added that allies are ensuring bilateral base agreements are implemented. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and the Italian government downplayed the announcement, with Italy seeing «no immediate consequences.» US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will visit Rome on Thursday for meetings, including with Defence Minister Guido Crosetto.
The EPC summit also provided an opportunity for leaders to coordinate on Ukraine. European Council President Antonio Costa met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Zelenskyy, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the sidelines.