Europe's Air Defense Gap: A Warning from the U.S. Shift

A Spanish commentator has warned that Europe must learn urgent lessons from the war in Ukraine. This comes as the United States changes its global defense strategy. Javier G. Cuesta, writing for El PAÍS, analyzes the new U.S. National Defense Strategy. He says it shows America is focusing less on Europe and more on challenges in Asia. This shift will leave Europe more alone to face Russia. A major problem, he notes, is Europe's lack of air superiority. This means control of the skies cannot be guaranteed in a conflict. Cuesta argues that Europe’s experience in supporting Ukraine should be a guide. The continent must build a stronger, more independent defense capability quickly. The lessons from Ukraine are clear, and Europe needs to act on them before 2025.