Spain’s Foreign Minister urges EU to establish a common European Army

Albares argued that Europe should initially focus on pooling its material resources in order to properly integrate its defense industry, before mobilizing a “coalition of the willing.” According to him, a unified military effort would be far more effective than maintaining 27 separate national armies.

More Effective Than National Forces

Addressing concerns about whether European citizens would be willing to participate in joint military efforts, Albares described the debate as legitimate but stressed that the chances of forming a critical mass are significantly higher at the European level than at the national level.

“A common effort would be more effective than 27 separate national armies,” the Spanish foreign minister stated, highlighting the need for stronger coordination and shared responsibility in European defense.

Emergency EU Summit Amid Rising Tensions

Albares’ remarks came ahead of an extraordinary EU leaders’ summit scheduled to take place later today in Brussels, aimed at coordinating a common European response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats regarding Greenland.

Late on Wednesday evening, a spokesperson for the European Council confirmed that the summit would proceed as planned, despite Trump’s announcement on social media claiming that he and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had “shaped the framework of an agreement.”

Completing an Unfinished European Project

“The idea of European defense was part of the very origins of the European Union,” Albares concluded. “It is up to my generation to complete this project.”

The renewed debate reflects growing concerns within the EU over strategic autonomy, security cooperation, and the bloc’s ability to respond collectively to geopolitical challenges.