EU ready to replace US as strategic

According to European Commissioner for Defense Andrius Kubilius, the European Union must be prepared to replace the United States' strategic capabilities in Europe to achieve true independence and create a full-fledged European Defense Union. This reflects Kubilius's recent statements that Europe is not yet capable of replacing the U.S. nuclear umbrella but must take responsibility for conventional defense and strategic capabilities such as space reconnaissance, aerial refueling, and command in the event of a reduction in American presence in the region.

Context

The EU is striving for greater autonomy in defense but has not yet replaced the American nuclear umbrella.