Disputes within the European Union and NATO over the formation of an independent European army are intensifying. Calls by several prominent European politicians to establish a military force separate from NATO have been met with firm opposition from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Rutte has described the idea as a “baseless dream” and emphasized the need to strengthen defense cooperation within the NATO framework. This reaction reflects Europe’s serious doubts about its reliance on U.S. security guarantees and its inability to build an independent defense structure.

For more than 80 years, Europe has tied its security to the United States and cannot easily break free from this dependence. This reliance has significantly constrained Europe’s choices and opportunities in dealing with global crises.

United States: A Dominant Power, Not a Savior

Policies during the Trump presidency showed that the United States is no longer a loyal and reliable ally for Europe. From economic tariffs to hostile actions regarding Greenland, the U.S. has demonstrated that it prioritizes its own interests even over those of its allies. This prompted some European leaders to stress the need to create an independent military force and reduce reliance on the United States. Figures such as Giorgia Meloni and the German chancellor have presented this issue as a necessity for the security and independence of the European continent.

At the same time, these developments reveal a deep divide in Europe’s defense policies and the need for a new strategy to confront global threats. In reality, many European officials can no longer view the United States as a security savior and are gradually moving toward greater self-reliance in this field.

Europe’s Bitter Fate: Endless Dependence on the United States

Mark Rutte’s remarks rejecting the idea of an independent European army, beyond showing distrust in Europe’s defense capabilities, point to the continent’s critical condition. After 80 years of dependence on the United States, Europe now not only lacks military independence but also faces serious economic and political challenges. This dependence has been so profound that even in the area of nuclear deterrence, Europe still relies on the United States.

Under these circumstances, many experts believe Europe has missed a historic opportunity to achieve defense and political independence. Recent developments on the continent indicate that only by relying on its own military and economic capacities can Europe resist U.S. dominance and attain an independent role in the emerging global order.

Lessons for Countries Seeking Independence

Europe’s crises in its relationship with the United States offer an important lesson for countries seeking political, economic, and military independence. Europe’s historical experience shows that dependence on a foreign power—especially in today’s world, where emerging powers are gaining global influence—can lead to decline and loss of independence. Countries such as Iran, which have managed to resist based on indigenous military and security capabilities, in fact present a model for others, demonstrating that the path to political and economic independence is only possible through self-sufficiency in the defense sphere.