Outgoing NATO chief warns EU against setting up “competing” force

NATO's outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg cautioned against EU defence initiatives that could duplicate or compete with NATO, especially in light of limited funding and personnel.

Speaking at a farewell event in Brussels, Stoltenberg expressed concern that the EU's plans for separate command structures and a rapid response force could divert essential resources from NATO, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

He emphasized that any EU defence efforts should complement NATO rather than create alternative frameworks, questioning the necessity of a competing intervention force proposed by the EU.

NATO officials have noted that EU defence strategies are already siphoning resources from the alliance. They argue that clarity in command is crucial during a crisis, warning that overlapping structures could lead to confusion and undermine effective responses. Stoltenberg also criticized the EU’s intention to establish its own military standards, asserting that there should be one set of capability targets governed by NATO.

While 23 of the EU’s 27 member states are NATO members, divisions exist regarding the EU's role in continental defence. France has advocated for increased EU defence autonomy, particularly in light of potential U.S. disengagement from Europe.

However, some NATO allies worry that this push could weaken the alliance’s significance. The upcoming leadership transition, with Mark Rutte becoming NATO's secretary-general, may influence the balance between NATO and EU defence initiatives. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also called for a stronger European Defense Union, despite concerns from some member states.