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politics1d ago
Top US official berates Europe over cutting American industry out of defense buildup
- U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau criticized Europe for prioritizing its own defense industry over American suppliers at a NATO ministers meeting.
- Landau urged Europe to convert defense spending into real capabilities rather than protectionist policies that exclude U.S. firms.
- The remarks coincided with Europe expanding its defense industry and discussing support schemes like the SAFE loans-for-arms program.
- Landau left the NATO meeting early, a move diplomats called not unusual for such closed-door sessions.
- NATO members are also advancing funding for defense collaboration, including schemes to support U.S. firms supplying Ukraine.
- The incident occurred in Brussels during a NATO foreign ministers meeting, where Landau’s absence from the full session drew attention.
- The article notes ongoing U.S. pressure on Europe over trade decisions and defense partnerships with a broader stance on alliance commitments.
- The briefing highlights the U.S. stance that Europe should not protect domestic firms at the expense of allies.
- Officials emphasized the aim to address defense spending gaps by pushing for practical capabilities rather than slogans.
- The piece references broader warnings about Russia and the urgency of European defense readiness.
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