NATO's Future Depends on Europe's Independence

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for Europe to increase its independence in the field of security to ensure NATO's future. Pistorius stated, 'We want to keep the Americans with us. There is a very simple formula for this: Germany and Europe must become much more independent in security matters.' The strategic alliance between Europe and the US can be preserved through a process of 'Europeanization' within NATO, Pistorius underlined, saying

We want to keep the Americans with us. There is a very simple formula for this: Germany and Europe must become much more independent in security matters. In other words, NATO must become more European so that it can continue as a transatlantic alliance.

. Pistorius called on EU countries to take decisive steps in a wide range of areas from security to economy, stating

EU countries should now focus more on themselves; we should aim for more sovereignty and independence in all areas.

. Pistorius also provided a striking example of Europe's dependence on foreign critical infrastructure through payment systems, saying

Digital sovereignty is just one of the areas we need to strengthen. Let me give you a concrete example: Try to find a credit card that is not linked to the American system; you won't find one.

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