EU defense plan a push for autonomy

Bloc's aim a daunting task as divisions remain among members, experts warn

The European Union's recent endorsement of a plan to bolster the bloc's defense capabilities is a major step toward reducing reliance on the United States, observers said. However, experts warned that achieving strategic autonomy is a daunting task as stark divisions remain among member states.

Leaders of the EU backed the ReArm Europe plan introduced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at a summit in Brussels on March 6. The plan aims to beef up military spending.

This push comes as European countries face significant pressure to increase defense spending following the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, who has warned that the continent must look after its own security.