Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has called for the establishment of a European army.
This proposition comes in reaction to former US President Donald Trump’s statement that he might “encourage” Russia to attack NATO member states that fail to meet their financial obligations if he were to win the upcoming elections.
During a press conference, Tajani emphasized the importance of European defense, stating that Italy has been insisting the necessity of a European army and a European defense policy that forms a part of European foreign policy. His comments were reported by the Italian Press Agency.
Tajani highlighted the recent initiation of a European mission in the Red Sea aimed at safeguarding maritime transport security, underscoring the need for credibility within NATO.
He believes Europe must demonstrate seriousness in its foreign and defense policies to be considered a credible force.
The foreign minister sees the establishment of a European army as the optimal way to signal Europe’s presence to the United States, reaffirming belief in NATO but demanding equal dialogue status.
