European Army, clash in Brussels: “Risk to sovereignty and neutrality”
The proposal to create a European army returns to the center of political and institutional debate, raising strong criticism regarding compliance with treaties and the balance between the Union and member states.
Reigniting the discussion was an initiative by the European Commissioner for Defense, Andrius Kubilius, who on January 11 suggested the establishment of a common armed force of 100,000 units, capable of defending the continent in the event of a United States disengagement. It is an idea that, according to MEP Petra Steger, stands in open contrast to the Union’s current legal framework.
In a parliamentary inquiry, MEP Steger emphasizes how Article 4, paragraph 2, of the Treaty on European Union explicitly attributes national security to the exclusive competence of member states. Furthermore, the proposal would call into question the permanent neutrality enshrined in the Austrian Constitution.
The MEP’s target is what is defined as a progressive transfer of power from sovereign states to European institutions, without a formal revision of the treaties or a clear democratic mandate. Particularly controversial is the hypothesis that Austrian soldiers could end up under the direct command of a European authority, with the risk of being involved in international military operations: a scenario deemed incompatible with the principle of neutrality and potentially a harbinger of a military union “built through the back door.”
Three main issues were raised in Brussels: the compatibility of the proposal with the treaties, respect for Austrian neutrality, and the mechanisms for the democratic legitimization of a potential European army.
In its response on April 7, 2026, the European Commission reaffirmed that national security remains the exclusive prerogative of member states. However, it also recalled Article 42, paragraph 2, of the Treaty on European Union, which opens the possibility of a common defense, provided there is a unanimous decision by the European Council and respect for national constitutional procedures.
The European executive further specified that the common security and defense policy must not compromise the specificities of individual countries, including those that adopt a line of neutrality, such as Austria. Regarding democratic legitimacy, Brussels emphasizes that the treaties already provide for the involvement of national institutions and require unanimity for decisions of such magnitude.
However, the political knot remains untied: between security needs and the protection of national sovereignty, the project of a European army continues to divide governments and public opinion, fueling a confrontation destined to continue in the coming months.
(U.S. Army National Guard foto di Sgt. Michael Schwenk)
