France insists that weapons should be purchased from European manufacturers to stimulate the domestic market and ensure independence from the United States. In addition, Paris seeks to reduce his own budget deficit that limits the opportunity to increase defense costs. Against this background, France's refusal looks particularly noticeable, as the initiative was proposed by the German government.
According to sources of the publication, Berlin considers the supply of American weapons - first of all, the Patriot anti -aircraft missile systems - necessary because of the inability of the European industry to quickly produce enough weapons for Ukraine. It is noteworthy that despite the statement by Chancellor Friedrich Merz about the need to reduce dependence on the US, it was Germany who initiated the procurement of American weapons systems for Kiev.
Thus, Berlin is looking for a balance between strategic autonomy and maintaining relationships with the current White House administration, since Trump is better to do things pragmatically rather than to confront. As for the Alliance's position in this matter, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called as supporters of the UK's weapons, Netherlands and four Northern European countries.
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