BRUSSELS (CHATNEWSTV) — European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Monday stressed the need for stronger European defense cooperation and closer ties with NATO as leaders gathered for an informal European Council meeting.
“We are going to discuss European defense and how we can do more—together,” Kallas told reporters upon arrival.
“This is extremely important given the situation we are in.”
Kallas said funding remains a challenge but emphasized that Europe’s security is closely linked to NATO and strong partnerships with the United Kingdom and the United States.
“A much stronger cooperation with NATO is needed,” she added.
Asked about EU defense spending, Kallas acknowledged concerns over some countries falling short of the 2% GDP target set in 2014.
“It is clear we need to do more because we have a full-scale war going on in Europe,” she said, referring to Russia’s ongoing aggression.
On U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments about potential tariffs on the EU, Kallas warned of economic consequences.
“There are no winners in trade wars. If the United States starts one, the one laughing on the side is China,” she said, adding that both sides are preparing for possible trade tensions.
