Bangladesh, May 25 -- The idea of a European Defense Union has moved from the margins of political debate to the center of strategic discussions across the continent. Faced with growing geopolitical uncertainty, the war in Ukraine, shifting American priorities, and concerns about long-term security guarantees, many European policymakers are asking a fundamental question: can Europe truly be sovereign in defense while remaining dependent on NATO?

The debate gained renewed attention after NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte described the alliance as a platform through which the United States projects power globally, emphasizing the importance of European assets in supporting broader American strategic objectives. His remarks highlighted a re...