European Arms Imports Soared in Past Four Years, SIPRI Think Tank Says
European arms imports rose 155% in 2020-24 and Ukraine has become the world's biggest arms importer following Russia's 2022 invasion. This significant shift underscores the ongoing global conflict's profound impact on international security dynamics. As a result, European countries are increasingly reliant on U.S. arms supplies to bolster their defenses.
- The reliance on U.S. arms exports for European defense may create long-term vulnerabilities if relations with Washington deteriorate or if alternative suppliers emerge.
- Can Europe successfully diversify its arms imports and build a more robust domestic defense industry to reduce its dependence on the United States?