Washington is expressing growing concern over efforts by European countries to reduce their reliance on American-made weapons. Five sources familiar with the matter have revealed that US officials are urging European nations to continue purchasing weapons from American manufacturers, even as the European Union works to strengthen its own defence industry.
Recent EU policies have sought to limit American companies’ participation in defence tenders, a move that has drawn criticism from Washington. The issue was discussed in a meeting on 25 March, where Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with the foreign ministers of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. During the discussion, Rubio emphasised that the United States expects continued involvement in European arms procurement. Two sources stated that he warned against excluding American companies, suggesting that such actions would be viewed negatively in Washington.
A diplomat from a northern European country, who was not present at the Baltic meeting, confirmed that US officials had also privately conveyed similar concerns to other European nations. Rubio is expected to further address the issue during his visit to Brussels, where he will attend the NATO Foreign Ministers Meeting. A senior State Department official has indicated that discussions will focus on ensuring European countries maintain their purchases of US weapons.
The US State Department has stated that Trump supports European allies strengthening their defence capabilities but warned against policies that could create barriers for American defence firms. This reflects Washington’s broader strategy of maintaining economic and strategic influence in European security matters.
In 2024, US arms sales reached a record £252 billion, representing a 28 percent increase compared to 2023. In February, reports surfaced that the Trump administration was considering encouraging European nations to purchase more American weapons for Ukraine, with the stated aim of reinforcing Ukraine’s military position before potential peace negotiations with Russia.
The EU’s push for greater defence independence has put it on a collision course with Washington.
