The United States, NATO and the European Union: A New Trans-Atlantic Relationship?

Abstract

Abstract : European-U.S. relations are evolving toward a more balanced partnership because Europe is growing increasingly stronger, more integrated, and more independent. The United States, while no less committed to Europe, is now taking a broader approach to its global responsibilities. The United States wants the concept of a Security and Defense Identity (ESDI) implemented in such a way that it neither duplicates NATO nor threatens to dismantle or replace the alliance. U.S. military presence in Europe remains crucial. Europeans want unambiguous indications of U.S. commitment and firm political leadership, but Europeans will have to accept a continuing U.S. commitment that is not measured solely by the level of U.S. forces in Europe. ESDI and the future U.S. role in Europe's security will have to be forged into a new trans-Atlantic relationship. NATO relations with the Western European Union (WEU) will come to the fore of U. S.-European relations, beginning with the Fall 1994 ministerial meetings. Key to the new relationship will be NATO's Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF) initiative, which would give NATO and WEU a deployable military capability. The French are delaying CJTF concept development.