In a push to establish Europe’s own integrated military, the European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker once again called for ending reliance on the United States’ support to defend against external threats. In June this year, after President Trump continued his call to increase military spending by NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) members who have not lived up to the 2 percent GDP spending commitments, Juncker said that the protection of Europe can no longer be outsourced. He added that even the biggest military powers of Europe can’t defend the continent from all threats and challenges.

Over the weekend, speaking to an Australian news outlet, Juncker once again said that there is a policy in the United States, where it has become clear that Europe can no longer rely on the United States for defense for a long time.

The calls to make an integrated European army have shot up significantly after the election of the French President Emmanuel Macron who has also called for more integration within the EU and Eurozone members. While the talks regarding the issue remain dormant at the moment, it is likely to see a fresh revival after the election in Germany, where incumbent Chancellor Angela Merkel is expected to win and become Germany’s longest serving chancellor.