All grown up – European Union on the path to strategic autonomy
All grown up – European Union on the path to strategic autonomy

Summary/Abstract: The 2016 presidential election in the United States left many countries concerned about the future of transatlantic relations. The slow disengagement of the United States from Europe, followed by the creation and cultivation of the Franco-German coalition gave the EU the boost needed to become more accountable for its defense and security. The European Union reacted to the election of Donald Trump by speeding-up its pursuit of strategic autonomy. The first step to achieving that goal is the successful implementation of Permanent Structural Cooperation (PESCO). This article will argue that the Trump election was not the only cause of the EU’s rapid race to strategic autonomy, but his campaign and policies left the EU with few options. The transatlantic relationship will most probably remain viable even after Trump but by the end of his term the EU could be more independent of the United States.

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