Portugal’s Call for EU Autonomy
Portugal’s Socialist President, António José Seguro, recently made a strong appeal for the European Union to become more self-sufficient, emphasizing the need to lessen reliance on the United States for defense.
During a two-day official visit to Italy to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the European University Institute in Florence, he advocated for enhanced “strategic autonomy” in European defense strategies.
While speaking at the Maggio Musical Fiorentino Theater, Seguro criticized the lack of urgency among the 27 EU member states in addressing international challenges, noting how the EU often seems stagnant. He remarked, “it hardly moves when there is an agreement,” pointing out that its reactions tend to be consistently delayed.
“Europe acknowledges that Russia poses a significant threat, and it’s unsustainable to keep relying on the United States for our security and defense,” Seguro stated. His remarks resonated with an audience that included several senior EU officials and leaders, alongside academics and students.
He urged the EU to decrease its dependence on the U.S. and other countries for military support. However, Seguro clarified that advocating for military independence doesn’t mean cutting ties with the U.S. or abandoning NATO. He emphasized the importance of EU nations procuring “European” defense resources and realizing “economies of scale” in the defense industry.
“What I propose in pursuing strategic autonomy isn’t about being anti-American; it’s about taking responsibility. We must uphold NATO while also working collaboratively as equal partners,” he explained.
In contrast with Spain, Portugal has notably supported the U.S. in its military efforts against the Iranian regime, allowing access to a U.S. military base on Terceira Island in the Azores for logistical assistance. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged this support in a recent conversation with Portugal’s Foreign Minister.
Regarding the upsurge of nationalism within Europe, Seguro expressed his concerns, highlighting that past mistakes must not be repeated. He made a distinction, asserting, “loving one’s country is a noble sentiment, but weaponizing that love against others leads to chaos and destruction.”
After his Florence engagements, Seguro met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in Rome. They both agreed on the necessity for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities. Following their meeting, Seguro reiterated the message that Europe should pursue self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of cooperation among EU member states.
He insisted that Europe must not depend on the United States or other nations for territorial protection, but he also stressed the importance of maintaining alliances. The aim should be to foster “a spirit of cooperation among allies rather than one of defeat.” He underscored the need for a robust European defense structure capable of broader military operations, suggesting that individual nations need not duplicate military assets like tanks and submarines, highlighting the benefits of shared resources.
