Can Turkey Help Close EU’s Military Preparedness Gap?

The Trump administration, which assumed office on January 20, sent a decisive message to European allies regarding the war in Ukraine and broader security dynamics at the Munich Security Conference held from February 14-16.

Washington’s approach, favoring US-led negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict while sidelining the EU, raised alarms in Brussels. The plan also proposed that European nations provide security assurances to Ukraine—without granting it NATO membership.

In response, French President Emmanuel Macron swiftly organized a summit in Paris on February 17, immediately after the Munich conference.

The high-level meeting brought together representatives from the EU administration, NATO, the UK, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark. Discussions centered on redefining Europe’s security framework in light of the shifting US stance.

How Should Europe Respond? Insights from Experts

In an interview with Anadolu, Brussels-based experts analyzed potential European strategies in reaction to the US administration’s evolving policies.

"Türkiye Has Been a Crucial NATO Ally for 73 Years"

Amanda Paul, a senior analyst at the European Policy Centre, stressed Türkiye’s growing strategic importance, particularly as the US considers scaling down its military presence in Europe.

"Given US threats to draw down its forces stationed in Europe, Türkiye’s contributions will be increasingly vital for the security and stability of the continent," she stated.

Paul highlighted Türkiye’s 73rd anniversary as a NATO member, emphasizing its significant role within the alliance:

"For the last 73 years, Türkiye has been an important and valued member of the Alliance. It has consistently ranked among the top five contributors to NATO missions, including operations in Europe, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Unlike many NATO countries, Türkiye has continued to invest heavily in its armed forces. It maintains NATO’s second-largest standing military, after the US, equipped with modern weaponry."

She further noted Türkiye’s key role in NATO’s defense strategy, particularly in Southern and Eastern Europe, and its significant contributions to global NATO operations.

Türkiye also plays a leadership role in the NATO-led KFOR mission in Kosovo, reinforcing stability in the Balkans. Paul added, "Alongside other allies, Türkiye remains instrumental in strengthening European security amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine."

Paul argued that the Trump administration’s policies could amplify Türkiye’s role, as many European countries lack sufficient military capacity due to years of underinvestment.

"The EU should prioritize strengthening security and defense cooperation with Türkiye to enhance Europe’s military capabilities," she said. "Türkiye has been excluded from EU defense initiatives like Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), which is an incredibly short-sighted decision."

"Türkiye Leads in Modern Warfare, Especially in Drone Technology"

Koert Debeuf, an international relations professor at the Brussels School of Governance and former advisor to the Belgian prime minister, described Europe’s reaction to the Munich Security Conference as one of shock.

"I honestly think the EU this week is a bit in shock," he remarked, emphasizing that European leaders had not anticipated such a firm position from the Trump administration. He argued that the EU must now reevaluate its role and strategy.

With the EU excluded from US-led Ukraine peace talks, Debeuf suggested that European leaders must take this time to reposition themselves. He highlighted Türkiye’s rising significance in this context.

"If we’re discussing the idea of a European army, it’s quite clear that Türkiye should be involved. Leaving Türkiye out would be a strategic mistake," he asserted.

Debeuf also underscored Türkiye’s leadership in modern military technology, particularly in drone warfare:

"When it comes to new evolutions in warfare, particularly drones and related technologies, Türkiye is far ahead."

He concluded by criticizing the EU’s lack of strategic foresight, suggesting that the bloc must reassess its approach to security and defense in response to these geopolitical shifts.