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Monday, Jan 05, 2026
Outside the box.
US Criticizes EU's Local Procurement Strategy Amid Global Defense Shifts
The United States has raised concerns over the European Union's 'buy local' defense strategy, which could affect transatlantic military cooperation. Meanwhile, Ukraine seeks rapid NATO membership amidst lukewarm responses from key countries, and tensions rise with confirmation of North Korean troops in Russia to support the Ukraine conflict. Both the European Union and NATO's support for Ukraine remains conditional as they navigate these complex geopolitical issues.
The United States envoy to NATO has raised concerns about the European Union's 'buy local' strategy when it comes to defense procurements, fearing it may hinder transatlantic cooperation.
At the same time, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy is seeking a rapid invitation to join NATO, yet major powers like Washington and Berlin are hesitant.
Furthermore, heightened tensions arise as it is confirmed that North Korean troops, potentially up to ten thousand, are now positioned in Russia to ally with Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine.
This development, labeled a 'very, very serious issue' by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, has prompted South Korea to brief NATO on the situation.
The European Union and NATO have expressed limited support for Zelenskyy's victory plan, as Ukraine awaits the unblocking of frozen Russian assets by the EU and an official NATO invitation.
At the same time, Ukraine's President Zelenskyy is seeking a rapid invitation to join NATO, yet major powers like Washington and Berlin are hesitant.
Furthermore, heightened tensions arise as it is confirmed that North Korean troops, potentially up to ten thousand, are now positioned in Russia to ally with Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine.
This development, labeled a 'very, very serious issue' by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, has prompted South Korea to brief NATO on the situation.
The European Union and NATO have expressed limited support for Zelenskyy's victory plan, as Ukraine awaits the unblocking of frozen Russian assets by the EU and an official NATO invitation.
