Spain urges Europe to build its own army
Photo: Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares (Getty Images)
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has called on Europe to create its own army and integrate its defense industry. This would allow the continent to act independently of third countries and strengthen its security, EFE reports.
"We must have our own means of deterrence, without dependence on third parties," José Manuel Albares says in an interview with EFE, calling on Europe to integrate its defense industry and move towards the creation of a European army.
Albares also comments on global challenges.
"We see attempts to change the rules of the international order in the actions of the United States in Venezuela or their claims on Greenland," he says.
The Minister also emphasizes support for Ukraine and condemned Russia's aggression.
"The only threat to Ukraine and European security is Russian troops in Ukraine. Neither Ukraine, nor the EU, nor NATO has ever posed a threat to Russia," Albares stresses.
The Minister stresses the importance of European leadership and independence, criticizing far-right forces that are trying to weaken the EU and undermine democratic principles.
He also advocates for the renewal of the UN and the selection of a new secretary-general from Latin America, preferably a woman, so that the organization reflects contemporary challenges.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has for the first time raised the possibility of involving Spanish troops in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine following the announcement of a ceasefire as part of a potential peace agreement.
After a meeting of the Сoalition of the Willing in Paris, he announced that he would begin a series of consultations with representatives of most parliamentary factions to discuss Spain's possible contribution to the peace process.
Earlier, Sánchez sharply rejected US President Donald Trump's proposal to increase European countries' defense spending to 5% of GDP, stressing that Europe's future should be built not on militarization, but on unity and respect for international law.
