EU Defence Spending: A Shift Towards National Responsibility?
A growing debate is unfolding within the European Union regarding the financing of increased defence spending. Estonian MEP Riho Terras, a prominent voice within the European People’s Party (EPP), has publicly stated his opposition to the idea of joint EU debt to fund military expenditures. Terras argues that individual member states should be responsible for securing their own resources for defence, a position that sets him apart from proponents like French President Emmanuel Macron.
The Case Against Joint Debt
Terras’s core argument, voiced on Euronews’ Europe Today, is simple: “Countries should find their own resources to increase their defence spending and not do it together.” He expressed a clear aversion to loans, believing that relying on market borrowing isn’t the optimal path for bolstering European defence capabilities. This stance reflects a concern about increasing debt burdens within the EU and a preference for fiscal independence among member states.
Draghi’s Vision of a ‘Genuine Federation’ – and the Skepticism It Faces
The debate is further complicated by differing visions for the future of the EU. Former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi has advocated for a more integrated “genuine federation,” a concept that would likely involve greater fiscal harmonization and potentially, joint debt issuance. However, Terras remains skeptical, pointing to the unlikelihood of amending the Lisbon Treaty to facilitate such a fundamental shift in the EU’s structure. He believes focusing on achievable goals is more pragmatic.
Europe’s Security: A Call for Self-Reliance
Terras emphasizes the importance of European self-reliance in matters of security. He asserts that Europe must take ownership of its own defence, rather than continually seeking reassurance from the United States. This sentiment is particularly relevant given recent statements from the US administration regarding the burden-sharing within NATO. According to Terras, the US views the current arrangement as unfair, and is looking for concrete action from European allies.
US Concerns and the Demand for European Action
Terras, recently returned from a trip to the US, relayed concerns about perceived imbalances in NATO funding. He noted US criticism of countries, such as Spain, that are not meeting expected contribution levels. While reassuring about continued US commitment to NATO, he underscored the message from Washington: “They want us to do more.”
The Upcoming EU Leaders’ Retreat
These issues are expected to be discussed at an informal retreat of EU leaders on Thursday at the Alden Biesen castle in Belgium. The presence of Enrico Letta and Mario Draghi will likely ensure a robust debate, with Draghi continuing to champion his vision of a more unified and federalized EU.
FAQ
Q: What is Riho Terras’s position on EU defence spending?
A: He believes each country should fund its own defence spending increases, rather than relying on joint EU debt.
Q: What is Mario Draghi’s vision for the EU?
A: He advocates for a “genuine federation” with greater fiscal integration.
Q: What is the US’s stance on NATO funding?
A: The US believes it has contributed too much to NATO for too long and wants European allies to increase their contributions.
Q: Where is Riho Terras from?
A: He is an MEP from Estonia.
Q: What committees does Riho Terras serve on?
A: He is Vice-Chair of the SEDE Committee on Security and Defence and a member of the AFET Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Did you know? Riho Terras also drafted the European Parliament report on Kosovo.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about the evolving dynamics within the EU is crucial for understanding the future of European security and defence policy.
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