Page 3 - Structured Cooperation News Today

Defence ministers today clashed with Brexiteer MPs over warnings that joining part of the EUs Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) will drag Britain into an EU army.

Despite accusations levelled at panellists on the consultative forums, no one is advocating that we join Nato, writes Declan Power

The company has signed letters of intent with four European nations – France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands – to launch a concept stage.

Ireland must adopt a policy of active, rather than passive, neutrality. The party’s position on defence has evolved

The latest batch of PESCO programs targets sea cable protection, torpedo-killing torpedos, new air-to-air missiles, ground robots and more.

When it comes to defense and military capability in the 21st century, it is clear that Europe is not pulling its weight. Spending and investment in defense across Europe has steadily declined since the end of the Cold War. The political will to deploy troops into harm’s way when it is in the national interest has all but evaporated for most EU countries.

It was noted that "the aim is to participate in selected cooperation projects"

Switzerland is exploring whether it should join two of the EU's military projects, on cyber defence and military mobility, as the traditionally neutral country gears up to boost defence cooperation with neighbouring countries.

UK lawmakers have urged EU and UK officials to gradually rebuild relations following a period of “tension and mistrust”, putting visa access for musicians and speedy UK access to the Horizon Europe research programme at the top of a list of fixes.

Enforcement of international law to prevent a blockade of Ukraine and ensure freedom of the seas represent important stakes for Nato.