Tensions between the United States and Europe have prompted a rethink about defence spending among European elites. The postwar paradigm saw Uncle Sam pick up the tab for security while the Continentals sunk their treasure into social protection and other political priorities. This suited Europe for as long as their benefactor remained broadly faithful to rules-based global liberalism and didn’t ask too much in return. Donald Trump is faithful only to himself, thinks international norms are for wimps, and sees America’s underwriting of European security as a sugar daddy arrangement. In demanding Greenland, he has read his credit card bill aloud to us and unzipped himself expectantly.

By all means, break with the United States and militarise the European Union, but be prepared for the avalanche of invoices coming your way

It’s not enough to shudder at Trump’s vulgarity and call him names and nor is it sufficient to announce a rethink on spending priorities. Action is required, far-ranging and urgent. We have seen in Ukraine that Europe cannot defend itself without the United States. We could yet see in Greenland that Europe cannot defend itself from the United States. The need for strength and self-reliance has never been more pressing. Question: how do we pay for it?

Aye, there’s the rub. By all means, break with the United States, militarise the European Union, even kick out American military bases if you want, but be prepared for the avalanche of invoices coming your way. Conventional defence; ground,........

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