Title: EPP Leader Manfred Weber Warns of Potential U.S. Cuts to NATO Military Support
Manfred Weber, the head of the European People’s Party (EPP) in the European Parliament, has hinted at a possible reduction in U.S. Russia's War in Ukraine: Insights from RAND | RAND – RAND Corporation”>military support for its European NATO allies in the long run. In an interview with the Funke media group, Weber acknowledged that Americans might not continue to bear the burden of protecting Europeans indefinitely, stating, "330 million Americans cannot constantly protect 440 million Europeans."
Weber underscored the importance of European nations taking joint responsibility for their defense. He proposed a united front for purchasing weaponry at favorable prices, establishing a European shield for anti-missile defense, creating a joint cybersecurity brigade, and cooperating to safeguard the Eastern border.
The former EPP leader also expressed caution about rushing into a peace agreement in Ukraine. He advocated for a clear definition of Ukraine’s borders and warned against offering Russian President Vladimir Putin a hasty compromise. Weber accused Putin of maintaining imperialistic thoughts, noting, "We thought this mindset had ended in Europe after World War II, but it hasn’t. We are still in Putin’s sights."
Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg anticipates renewed pressure from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on allies to increase their military spending. During his presidential campaign, Trump insisted that NATO allies should aim for defense expenditure of 3% of their GDP. Recently, reports emerged suggesting that Trump could even demand 5%.
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