US ambassador slams EU's 'Buy European' weapons push as ‘self-interest’
Preference for European-made arms could disrupt the transatlantic defence industrial base and benefit Europe’s "enemies", Ambassador Andrew Puzder warns.
European Union's efforts to prioritize its domestic arms industry may strain relationships with allies and weaken the transatlantic defence industrial base, according to the US ambassador to the EU, Andrew Puzder. Speaking at the Euronews Defence and Space summit in Brussels, Puzder warned that when adversaries attack a member state, unity and weapon superiority will be valued over regional economics.
He emphasized that capability and availability should determine the solution, not geographical location. Puzder criticized the European Commission and EU states for proposing to favor domestic arm manufacturers to reduce reliance on US-made arms, amid signs of fracture in the transatlantic alliance under President Donald Trump. The Pentagon has vehemently opposed the move, but the US administration has pushed NATO's European allies to become more independent in self-defense.
The EU's proposals have sparked division among member states, with some warning against over-protectionism, given the US's arms manufacturing power. Puzder praised the Commission for allowing American defence material to be procured for Ukraine, stating that the US would lobby for similar provisions in upcoming defence policies.
He assured that they would continue candid conversations, with disagreements likely, but generally agreeing on the importance of an alliance that faces adversaries with unity and strength.
Written by urgent.news from Euronews's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
