NATO was established when half of post war Europe was under Soviet domination, including much of Eastern Germany. To protect the west from Soviet threat Europeans needed America. And it was in America’s interest peacefully to protect us. But times have changed.
Former Soviet dominated countries are now free. And Europe is economically united, a symbol of its cultural and historic common heritage. And European integration, the practical manifestation of a common bond and outlook, means that approaching a half of a billion people are meaningfully European citizens.
Cultural and Economic units such as the EU/EFTA also need to defend themselves. The case for a European Defence Force is overwhelming. It would be politically logical and accountable (to member States via the EU Parliament). There would be no reason why a Europe taking responsibility democratically for its own defence couldn’t negotiate mutually beneficial military alliances with other countries with which it has a common interest , especially former NATO partners like the United States and Canada and Britain.
Paddy’s Blogs in a crazy world 
It’s taken Donald Trump of all people to highlight the fact that NATO members are not paying their full dues. They are reliant on America for their defence. Trump’s remarks of course were said in a crass and ugly manner but there is validity in what he said. Most Nato members pay far less than 2% of GDP for their defence. Turkey being one of the greatest laggards.
So perhaps it is time to rethink the existing NATO structure and move toward a European Army. The big question would be if the United Kingdom would join. I doubt it with the current Tory government.
If America left NATO, something Trump has threatened to do then a European Army would need to follow. European nations would then be forced into paying probably double their current contributions to maintain an effective military deterrent. Britain far more than any other to defend its isolated island.
Trump is on course regretfully to become the next US president. European nations need to urgently consider the negative consequences that will follow for the defence of Europe.
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