EU leaders meet to counter pressure from Russia, China, Trump

European Union leaders convened to address escalating geopolitical pressures from Russia, China, and the United States under the Trump administration. A significant focus of the discussions was the EU's defense spending, particularly the debate over whether a portion of these funds should be allocated exclusively to European arms manufacturers. This move aims to bolster the EU's military capabilities while also supporting local defense industries. The meeting comes at a critical time, as EU nations seek to navigate a complex international landscape marked by increasing assertiveness from Russia and China, alongside the implications of U.S. foreign policy shifts. Leaders emphasized the need for a unified approach to enhance both collective security and economic resilience within the bloc, signaling a potential shift towards greater autonomy in defense matters amidst ongoing global uncertainties.