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European NATO Nations Boost Defense Spending, Cut U.S. Weapon Dependence

4/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

European NATO countries reduced dependence on United States weapon imports while boosting defense spending over the past year.
Guntram Wolff, Senior Fellow at Bruegel, says purchasing weapons from the United States poses a liability due to technology dependence and hinders the growth of a domestic defense ecosystem.
The perspective highlights concerns about Europe's strategic autonomy in defense matters.

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Story summary

European NATO countries reduced dependence on United States weapon imports while boosting defense spending over the past year.
Guntram Wolff, Senior Fellow at Bruegel, says purchasing weapons from the United States poses a liability due to technology dependence and hinders the growth of a domestic defense ecosystem.
The perspective highlights concerns about Europe's strategic autonomy in defense matters.