Part 3/10:
A major theme arising from this discourse is the need for Europe to increase its defense spending. With varying opinions and a wide range of commentary from the public, the urgency to act cannot be overstated. Individuals from the online community voiced opinions ranging from skepticism about America’s commitment to Europe to the necessity for Europe to take charge of its own defensive strategies. A recurring suggestion in this online exchange was the proposition to allocate substantial resources—potentially as much as 7 or 8% of GDP—to defense initiatives.
Europhiles and skeptics alike recognized that a new defense structure must be responsive and robust to ensure the continent’s resilience against emerging threats, exemplified by Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine.