EU Seeks Defence Pact with Australia to Strengthen Military Ties

The European Union has proposed a defence and security pact with Australia, aiming to deepen military ties amid a volatile global security environment. This proposal was discussed between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during a meeting in Rome, where von der Leyen emphasized Australia's role as a reliable and strategic partner sharing common values. Albanese acknowledged the discussions as preliminary, noting Australia’s existing defence arrangements with European nations and openness to further engagement, possibly through NATO or direct EU collaboration. The initiative reflects a broader push by global leaders to strengthen alliances as concerns grow over the reliability of the United States under President Donald Trump. Concurrently, Australia has reaffirmed its support for Ukraine, including military aid and tank shipments, highlighting its commitment to international security. These developments indicate a potential new era of military cooperation between Australia and the EU, aiming to enhance stability and strategic partnerships.