The little-known clause that Europe’s security may now depend on
Summary
Europe has a lesser-known rule, article 42.7 of the EU treaty, that says if a member country is attacked, other EU members must help with all means they have. This article has gained attention as worries rise about the reliability of the US protecting Europe under NATO, especially after President Trump made threats and doubts about the alliance.Key Facts
- NATO’s article 5 says an attack on one country is an attack on all, requiring armed defense.
- The EU’s article 42.7 also requires members to help any member under armed attack, but the exact actions are unclear.
- The US has many military bases and troops in Europe, showing its defense commitment.
- President Trump threatened Greenland, attacked Iran without consulting Europe, called NATO a "paper tiger," and considered leaving NATO.
- Poland’s Prime Minister worried whether the US would keep its NATO promises if Russia attacked.
- EU leaders at a recent summit agreed to create a plan explaining how to use article 42.7 if triggered.
- Cyprus pushed for better use of article 42.7 after drone attacks linked to Hezbollah hit its territory.
- France is the only country to use article 42.7 so far, after the 2015 terrorist attacks, receiving help from other EU countries.
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