Sweden is calling for Europe to build stronger military capabilities that would allow NATO’s European members to operate with less dependence on the United States, as concerns grow across the continent about long-term American commitment to European security.
The message came directly from Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson, who warned that European nations can no longer rely as heavily on Washington for military protection and strategic support.
“We cannot continue to be so dependent on the U.S.” Jonson said during recent discussions about Europe’s future defense posture.
The remarks reflect a broader shift taking place across Europe since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and amid growing uncertainty over future U.S. foreign policy priorities Defence24 reported. While Sweden remains firmly committed to NATO and close cooperation with Washington, Stockholm is increasingly arguing that Europe must be capable of defending itself more independently.
Jonson also said that European countries should “strengthen their defence ties in NATO without the US” and invest more heavily in domestic military industries and strategic technologies such as satellites and space systems.
The Swedish minister pointed to new national projects designed to reduce dependence on foreign military infrastructure. He highlighted Sweden’s expanding space and surveillance programs, including the Kiruna rocket base in northern Sweden and the launch of the country’s first military satellite.
“There are some autonomous capabilities that we have developed.” Jonson said. “That is something that is helpful as well.”
The comments come at a critical moment for European defense planning. Several European governments have accelerated military spending since the war in Ukraine began, fearing that Europe could eventually face a reduced American military presence if Washington shifts more resources toward Asia or domestic priorities.
Sweden formally joined NATO in 2024 after decades of military nonalignment, a decision driven largely by security fears following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since then, Stockholm has rapidly expanded defense spending and strengthened military integration with NATO forces.
Despite Jonson’s calls for greater European self-reliance, Swedish officials insist they are not seeking to break away from the United States or weaken NATO ties.
In fact, Sweden has simultaneously deepened cooperation with Washington through defense agreements and joint military planning. Stockholm signed a bilateral Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States aimed at improving military coordination and enabling faster deployment of U.S. forces in Sweden during crises.
Jonson himself previously described the agreement as a stabilizing measure that would allow Sweden to receive “early, swift and effective military support” from the United States during worsening security conditions.
Still, the Swedish government appears increasingly focused on ensuring Europe develops its own military backbone inside NATO rather than depending overwhelmingly on American power.
“If there is a will there is a way to make sure that we have a stronger European pillar inside NATO” Jonson said.
That debate has intensified after growing political divisions inside the United States over support for Ukraine and NATO spending commitments. European leaders have openly discussed the possibility that future American administrations could reduce military commitments to Europe or demand that European allies shoulder much larger defense burdens.
Sweden’s push also reflects its unusually strong domestic defense industry. The country produces advanced military equipment including fighter jets, submarines, radar systems, and surveillance aircraft through defense giant Saab AB.
Jonson argued that maintaining a strong domestic defense manufacturing base is essential for national security and credible deterrence.
“Having a strong defence industrial base is part of credible deterrence” he said.
Sweden has already increased military spending beyond NATO’s benchmark target of 2% of GDP, joining a growing list of European countries rapidly rearming amid fears of long-term instability in Eastern Europe.
The shift toward greater European military independence is not limited to Sweden. Similar discussions are taking place in France, Germany, Poland, and other NATO countries. However, Sweden’s statements have drawn particular attention because the country only recently entered the alliance after abandoning centuries of neutrality.
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Critics argue that Europe still remains deeply dependent on U.S. military capabilities, especially in intelligence gathering, missile defense, logistics, airlift operations, and nuclear deterrence. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, recently warned that Europe cannot currently defend itself without American support.
Even Swedish leaders acknowledge that the United States remains central to NATO’s strength. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson recently said cooperation with the American defense industry remains important, although Europe should still reduce excessive dependence on U.S. arms and military systems.
Jonson also rejected claims that Sweden’s growing cooperation with NATO and the U.S. had weakened Swedish security independence.
“Sweden is safer now than it was a year ago when we joined the alliance” he said, pointing to NATO’s collective defense guarantees under Article 5.
For now, Sweden’s position appears to be a balancing act: strengthen ties with the United States while simultaneously preparing Europe to operate more independently if geopolitical conditions change.
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The debate is likely to intensify in the coming years as NATO members face mounting pressure to increase defense budgets, expand weapons production, and prepare for a security environment that may no longer guarantee unlimited American military backing.
For more political reporting and in-depth analysis, visit the Politics section at bdesk.news.
Michaela Reeds is an investigative journalist and reporter with a focus on politics, science, and technology. She brings clarity to complex issues, translating policy developments, scientific breakthroughs, and technological innovations into compelling stories for a broad audience. She is known for her dedication to accuracy, transparency, and in‑depth reporting.
