European Union defence commissioner Andrius Kubilius has urged EU countries to consider creating a joint military force that could one day replace the 100,000 US troops stationed in Europe. Speaking in Sweden, Kubilius highlighted rising doubts about America's long-term military commitment in Europe. He said, “How will we replace the 100,000-strong American standing military force, which is the back-bone military force in Europe?” Kubilius proposed setting up a “powerful, standing European military force” of about 100,000 troops. Concerns over US support have grown after remarks by US President Donald Trump, such as his interest in buying Greenland, which alarmed NATO allies. European countries have responded by increasing their defence spending and military readiness amid the ongoing threat from Russia. The US has encouraged Europe to take on more responsibility for its own security and hinted at shifting troops toward China. The idea of a central European army has been discussed for years but faced resistance as countries hesitate to give up control over their national forces. Kubilius said, “In such times, we should not run away from the most pressing questions on our institutional defence readiness.” Alongside the joint force plan, Kubilius called for a new “European Security Council” with around 10 to 12 members, including major European powers and possibly Britain. This council would enable faster, coordinated defence decisions. He said, “The European Security Council could be composed of key permanent members, along with several rotational members.” One of the council’s top priorities should be the war in Ukraine. Kubilius stressed the need for a clear EU strategy to prevent Kyiv from losing. He said, “We need to have a clear answer – how is the EU going to change that scenario? This is the reason why we need to have a European Security Council now!”