France Calls for EU-Only Defense Alliance

France has called for the establishment of a European defense alliance independent of the United States, similar to NATO.

French Prime Minister François Bayrou emphasized that a European defense union is the only viable solution, arguing that Europe can no longer rely on the US for security.

He highlighted the need for a reassessment by those who previously believed American protection was sufficient for Europe's safety. France has long advocated for strategic autonomy, a stance dating back to the era of General Charles de Gaulle.

Bayrou also suggested that defense spending should be exempt from European fiscal rules that impose limits on national budget deficits.

According to France’s 2025 budget plan, military spending is expected to increase by more than 3 billion euros, reaching 50.5 billion euros, equivalent to 2 percent of the country’s GDP.

Since 2017, France has been steadily increasing its defense budget, aiming to double it by 2030. Projections indicate that military spending will reach 67.4 billion euros by the end of the decade.