Lithuanian PM urges EU to build independent defence system Amid US election uncertainty

Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonīte has urged European Union countries to develop their own defence capabilities without depending on US security assurances, particularly in light of the upcoming US presidential elections.

In an interview with French media, Šimonīte highlighted the importance of the EU taking charge of its own defence, Caliber.Az reports.

She noted, "A lot will depend on who will be on the team of the future US president. We resonate with some of Donald Trump's criticisms from his first term, especially his stance that Europe has relied too long on American security guarantees. While this view may seem harsh, it's a fair point. The EU must address its own defence needs and build a robust defence industry."

Šimonīte also emphasized that regardless of whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris becomes the next US president, Europe must be considered a critical geopolitical player. She warned that any shift away from this perspective could benefit Russia, describing it as a potential “gift for Russia” if not addressed properly.