Over the last year, Europe has awakened to the necessity of being more assertive and militarily independent from the American administration, which has shifted its stance on liberal democratic norms. This awakening is highlighted in a report prepared for the Munich Security Conference. Analysts and European politicians alike are increasingly acknowledging the weakening of transatlantic cooperation and the importance of Europe reducing its reliance on the United States.

French President Emmanuel Macron has notably warned against the strategy of subservience to the US and other geopolitical powers, stating that it is no longer effective. At a recent press conference, he urged Europe to take charge of its own decisions, warning that failure to do so would lead to being swept away by changing tides—referring to what he calls a 'deep geopolitical rupture’ impacting trade and defense. He advocates for a proactive approach to minimize risk and dependency.

Experts suggest that while the call for greater independence is clear, the actual shift in policies and frameworks will take years to implement. The EU's acknowledgment of the need for self-determination in defense and technological areas marks a significant and necessary evolution in its geopolitical strategy as it faces complex global challenges.