EU Commissioner for Defence Kubilius proposed creating a European military force of 100,000 soldiers
Kyiv • UNN
EU Commissioner Andrius Kubilius proposed creating a joint EU military force of 100,000 soldiers. This force could replace the American contingent in Europe and ensure the continent's independent defence.
European Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius stated the need to consider the possibility of creating joint EU military forces. Speaking in Sweden on Sunday, January 11, 2026, he emphasized that such forces could eventually replace the American contingent in Europe. This is reported by UNN.
Details
Kubilius raised the issue of the continent's readiness for self-defense in the event of a change in Washington's defense policy.
How do we replace the 100,000-strong American regular military forces, which are the backbone of the European armed forces?
The idea of creating a permanent European force of 100,000 troops gained relevance against the backdrop of statements by US President Donald Trump, including his intentions regarding Greenland, which increased doubts among NATO allies about the reliability of US support.
In addition to Washington's pressure to increase defense spending, bloc countries are forced to strengthen their own armies due to the direct threat from Russia.
Initiative to create a European Security Council
In addition to forming an army, Andrius Kubilius advocated for the creation of a "European Security Council." This body, which could include 10 to 12 leading states (including Great Britain), should ensure prompt decision-making in the field of defense.
According to the commissioner's plan, the structure will consist of permanent and rotating members.
In such times, we should not shy away from the most important issues related to our institutional readiness for defense.
Despite years of discussions about a centralized European army, which previously lacked support due to countries' unwillingness to lose control over their own troops, the current geopolitical situation is forcing the EU to return to discussing this issue.