US Threatens Retaliation Against EU If It Restricts Access for American Arms Manufacturers
Washington (ANTARA) - The administration of US President Donald Trump has threatened retaliatory action against European Union member states should they restrict American arms manufacturers’ access to European defence markets, Politico reported, citing a Washington consultation document with the European Commission.
“The United States firmly opposes any changes… that would limit the ability of US industry to support or participate in the national defence procurement of EU member states,” the document stated, as quoted by Politico on Thursday.
According to the report, Washington considers protectionism an inappropriate course for the European Union, particularly amid growing global security challenges.
Politico highlighted what it described as a “paradox” in the US approach towards Europe. On one hand, Washington has repeatedly urged the bloc to assume greater responsibility for the region’s conventional defence.
On the other hand, the Trump administration reportedly does not wish to see Europe’s enhanced defence role come at the expense of American defence companies’ interests.
Last week, Politico also reported, citing internal German Defence Ministry documents, that the European Union is examining replacements for the US-made Boeing Airborne Early Warning and Control (AWACS) surveillance aircraft with European-produced alternatives.
The move is seen as part of a push by some EU member states to strengthen regional defence industrial self-reliance and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated at the Munich Security Conference earlier this month that Europe’s view of collective security has fundamentally shifted.
According to Rutte, European nations are now more prepared to increase defence spending and take a more active role within the alliance.
The tensions over market access have emerged amid a broader debate on defence burden-sharing among NATO allies and the future direction of European defence industrial policy.