Recent geopolitical shifts, particularly the increasing distance between the U.S. and Europe under President Donald Trump, have reignited the debate over the establishment of a unified European army. Although the concept of an independent military force in Europe has been discussed for decades without solid progress, the urgent need for Europe to bolster its defense capabilities—especially in the face of Russian aggression—has become more pronounced. With recent events surrounding the crisis in Greenland acting as a catalyst, there is now a growing consensus among EU member states regarding the necessity of self-reliance in defense matters.

The controversy over Trump's interest in Greenland exemplified the growing concerns about U.S. reliability as an ally. As the EU grapples with the implications of a potentially isolationist U.S. foreign policy, leading figures within the European defense community have begun to advocate for a stronger military presence that could operate independently of NATO. This has brought the discussion of a permanent European military force into sharper focus, highlighting the challenges of both political will and existing commitments to NATO.

Though a push for a unified European army might strengthen the EU's position on the global stage, questions remain about operational viability and member states’ willingness to relinquish some aspects of their military sovereignty. Building a cohesive military structure that can effectively respond to threats like those posed by Russia will require not only strategic planning but also overcoming historical rivalries and a commitment to collective defense strategies amongst European nations.