American officials have expressed hope that European allies will continue to purchase American-made weapons, despite recent European Union initiatives that may limit the participation of American companies in arms supply tenders. This was reported by five sources familiar with the situation.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Political Situation and US Plans
The latest reports from Washington have emerged against the backdrop of EU efforts aimed at strengthening the European defense industry, which, in turn, may limit the procurement of certain types of weapons from the United States. Initial steps taken by the Trump administration raised concerns among European partners, who began to question the reliability of the US as an ally.
In mid-March, the European Commission initiated plans to increase defense spending and pool resources for joint defense projects, as a decrease in US military involvement was anticipated during Trump’s presidency. Some of these measures may reduce the role of companies outside the EU, particularly American ones.
US Efforts on the Diplomatic Front
At a meeting on March 25, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the United States seeks to continue participating in arms procurement by EU countries. Sources report that Rubio noted that excluding American companies from European tenders could seriously damage relations between the countries.
“This is an issue the Secretary of State has raised and will continue to raise,” said a senior State Department official.
A State Department representative also expressed support for the efforts of European allies to “strengthen their defense capabilities and take responsibility for their own security,” but warned against creating barriers that could deter American companies.
A document known as the “Draghi Report” indicated that from mid-2022 to mid-2023, 63% of all EU defense contracts were awarded to US companies. Analysts emphasize that for the first time in two decades, American arms exports to Europe have surpassed those to the Middle East.