“We are considering a rapid reaction force of 100,000 or 80,000 troops, intended to replace American forces,” he stated, should they scale down their presence in Europe. “That’s why I’m emphasizing the term rapid reaction force, to avoid the misconception of a European army.”
He acknowledged that such a force would face challenges, as it would be governed by member countries, complicating rapid and unified action. He did not specify whether this European force would be part of NATO, but emphasized Europe’s continued reliance on the alliance.
To address leadership challenges, Kubilius proposed establishing a European Security Council, comprising five or six major EU countries, possibly including the U.K., along with smaller EU countries on a rotating basis, plus the Council and the European Commission.
He suggested that such a body “may be the answer” to the leadership issue.
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