EU ministers push for joint defence fund to secure a more self-reliant Europe
European Union finance ministers are preparing to explore an ambitious new initiative that could mark a turning point in the bloc's approach to collective security.
At the heart of this week's discussion is the proposed European Defence Mechanism (EDM) – a joint fund designed to reshape how Europe procures, funds, and manages its military capabilities, while reducing its long-standing dependence on the United States.
The proposal, which will be discussed at an informal gathering of EU finance ministers in Warsaw this week, lays out a framework for a shared defence fund that would purchase and own military equipment, offering member states access for a usage fee.
Crucially, the EDM would operate outside national budgets, easing concerns among high-debt countries like Italy, Greece, and France about increasing public debt.
The concept, though developed by the Bruegel think tank, has been picked up with growing interest by policymakers across Europe.
Commissioned by the Polish presidency of the EU, the plan is gaining traction at a time when European leaders are acutely aware of the need to bolster their own defences in light of Russia's ongoing aggression and a shifting transatlantic security landscape.
One of the most notable features of the EDM is its potential inclusivity.
Read more on RFI EnglishRead also:France's Dassault says stepping up Rafale warplane outputFrance remains world's second largest arms exporter behind USFrench, UK military chiefs discuss options to strengthen Ukraine's army
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