Support coming from the White House for its allies has become more erratic since the beginning of President Trump’s second term. This change has led numerous European leaders to doubt the United States’ dedication to maintaining transatlantic unity.
During an exclusive interview with Euronews, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković emphasized the significance of continued American involvement in European matters and organizations like NATO.
“I believe that the United States should remain dedicated to Europe and to the transatlantic partnership as a force for stability and peace on our continent,” stated Plenković.
And naturally, to emphasize the significance of NATO, as this organization has ensured collective security for 75 years and should undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of such protection.
In spite of worries regarding inconsistent U.S. policy, Plenković showed faith in NATO’s present direction. He highlighted rising defense expenditures throughout the alliance, as well as Croatia’s contributions to this trend.
The military equipment not just limited to that of the US
When questioned regarding NATO’s stability, Plenković felt confident it was heading in the correct direction since numerous nations had met their commitment for defense expenditure. For instance, Croatia has allocated 2.1% of its GDP towards defense and plans to spend an additional 30% on modernization efforts; furthermore, they aspire to increase their investment further in military hardware.
Croatia has significantly expanded its acquisition approach to incorporate both American and European military technology, with the aim of improving compatibility and long-term robustness.
“We are also working very much on the procuring European defence equipment, not only the American equipment, but we’ve been in the process from eastern to western military technologies and we have so far increased our budget for defence more than three times,” Plenković explained.
“The aim is to further increase this in the coming years, and I believe that the recently released EU defense white paper, along with the new tools being developed by the European Union, will enhance our strategic independence as well as our capacities and ability to work together effectively within the European Union,” he said.
Recently, Croatia finished acquiring a fleet of 12 French Rafale fighter jets, enhancing its aerial defense capabilities. This Adriatic nation has additionally contributed €300 million in military support to Ukraine following Russia’s comprehensive invasion at the start of 2022. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković asserts this action was taken not only to defend Ukraine but also as an integral stance supporting overall European liberty.
The aim is not to put anyone at risk.
Recently, Croatia, Albania, and Kosovo entered into a defense pact designed to enhance their military capabilities, foster technological advancements, and improve operational coordination via shared training exercises.
“None of us intended to pose a threat with this agreement. We didn’t perceive ourselves as being under threat from others either; thus, portraying such sentiments following the signing of the agreement seemed misleading and unwarranted to us,” stated Plenković.
Nonetheless, the tripartite agreement has faced opposition from Serbia, which does not acknowledge Kosovo’s sovereignty. Serbian authorities have alleged that both NATO allies Albania and Croatia are instigating an “arms race” within the region. Meanwhile, Serbia and Hungary have entered into their own pact aimed at bolstering military collaboration. However, Croatian Prime Minister Plenković doesn’t view this development as posing “any kind of threat to Croatia.”
Plenković stressed the importance of adhering to national boundaries and legal standards across Europe, highlighting the EU integration process as a crucial element binding the continent together. He stated, “The European route serves as the adhesive for aligning all nations in the correct trajectory and facilitates necessary reforms along with advantages for the populace.”
He emphasized trust and conversation as crucial elements for sustaining European stability. He stated, “In our opinion, this is vital, particularly when fostering genuine conversations and establishing trust. Absent these components—trust-building and ongoing dialogue—the risk of instability remains ever-present.”
Leave a Reply