Koblenz, Germany – In a strong reaffirmation of transatlantic defense ties, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier made it clear that while a European army remains a compelling idea, it cannot and should not serve as a substitute for NATO. Speaking during a visit to a military command center in Koblenz, Steinmeier underscored the enduring importance of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and urged greater German contributions to the alliance.
“We have a lot to thank NATO for,” said Steinmeier. “The European army is an idea, but it is not an adequate substitute for the security provided by NATO.”
His comments come at a time when debates over European strategic autonomy and the future of global security alliances are gaining momentum—especially amid rising geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine and increased defense spending across Europe.
The German president used the occasion to call for greater support for NATO from Germany, noting that as threats evolve, so too must Germany’s strategic contributions.
“Germany must make greater contributions to the Western defense alliance in the coming years,” Steinmeier emphasized.
This statement aligns with recent shifts in German defense policy, including the €100 billion special defense fund announced in 2022 and ongoing efforts to modernize the Bundeswehr—Germany’s armed forces. The investment marks a significant pivot in German defense policy, which has traditionally been more restrained due to its post-WWII legacy.
Steinmeier, reflecting on the purpose of the Bundeswehr, noted that although the military has evolved over decades, the core mission of its soldiers remains unchanged.
“That is the protection of our free democratic basic order,” he said. “It is the protection of freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and human dignity.”
This reaffirmation of the Bundeswehr’s mission comes amid public discussions about its readiness, effectiveness, and role in modern European security strategy. Defense analysts have long called for greater interoperability with NATO, better equipment and logistical coordination, and more streamlined command structures.
The concept of a European army has gained traction, particularly in Brussels and among EU proponents advocating for more strategic autonomy. French President Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly called for Europe to reduce its dependency on U.S. defense capabilities.
However, Steinmeier’s remarks serve as a realistic counterbalance to such ambitions. While supportive of stronger EU defense collaboration, he reminded policymakers and military leaders that:
“Let’s not take refuge in alternatives that are not available.”
The European army, while symbolically powerful, lacks the immediate infrastructure, operational capacity, and consensus required for full-scale implementation. NATO, by contrast, offers an existing security framework with proven deterrence capabilities—especially critical as Russia’s aggression in Ukraine continues to challenge European stability.
Steinmeier also referred to the new coalition agreement reached in Berlin to form Germany’s next government. While not directly involved in government formation, his remarks signal expectations from the new leadership to continue investing in security and defense.
“We are meeting here on a special day,” he said. “There is hope that the new government’s priorities will include strengthening the Bundeswehr.”
The incoming coalition, expected to include the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens, and Free Democrats (FDP), has pledged to maintain Germany’s NATO commitments and invest in modernizing military infrastructure, cybersecurity, and strategic mobility.
NATO’s Relevance in the 21st Century
As global security dynamics shift, Steinmeier’s comments come as a timely endorsement of NATO’s continued relevance. The alliance has found renewed purpose in responding to threats on Europe’s eastern flank, reinforcing member states near Russia and increasing collective exercises and readiness.
Germany’s role, as Europe’s largest economy, is seen as critical to NATO’s long-term sustainability. The Bundeswehr is expected to play a leading role in joint European defense initiatives while simultaneously remaining integrated with NATO’s command structure.
