Standing Alone: Is Europe Ready to Survive Without American Military Backing?

For decades, the United States has been the cornerstone of Europe’s defense architecture through NATO, offering military strength, nuclear deterrence, and strategic leadership. However, growing uncertainty about long-term U.S. commitment, especially amid America’s shifting focus toward the Indo-Pacific, has prompted European leaders to ask whether the continent can take more responsibility for its security.

The idea of strategic autonomy has gained traction, with France and Germany leading calls for a stronger, more self-reliant European defense. The EU has launched initiatives like the European Defence Fund and PESCO to boost joint capabilities, and several nations have pledged increased military spending. Yet real obstacles remain, including fragmented national forces, limited coordination, and deep reliance on U.S. technology, intelligence, and logistical support.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine exposed these weaknesses and reaffirmed the vital role the U.S. continues to play in European security. While Europe showed remarkable unity in response, it was largely American weapons, intelligence, and leadership that helped Ukraine resist the invasion. The crisis highlighted the risks of overdependence, but also the difficulty of moving away from it too quickly.

Ultimately, Europe may not be ready to fully detach from the U.S. security umbrella, nor is it clear that doing so would be wise in a volatile global environment. Instead, a balanced approach, investing in European defense while preserving the transatlantic alliance, may offer the most realistic path forward.