Europe’s leaders are gearing up for a crucial meeting on Monday to tackle one big question: how to pay for stronger defenses. The urgency comes as President Trump’s return to the White House raises doubts about ongoing U.S. support for Europe’s security efforts.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine three years ago was a wake-up call for Europe, highlighting the need for more robust defense spending. Now, with Trump hinting at pulling back U.S. financial and military aid, European nations are feeling the pressure to step up. Trump has even pushed NATO countries to boost defense budgets to 5% of their economic output, a hefty jump from the current goal of 3% to 3.5%.

The European Union, traditionally focused on trade and peace, is now shifting toward a stronger defense strategy. Leaders are looking to expand defense industries and make spending more efficient. Monday’s meeting in Brussels will include British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, marking the first time a UK leader has joined EU leaders since Brexit.

One hot topic on the agenda is whether the EU can raise funds through shared debt, similar to how it tackled the Covid crisis. But this idea comes with challenges. Joint borrowing might conflict with NATO’s individual spending demands for member nations. Out of the 27 EU countries meeting Monday, 23 are also NATO members.

As Europe grapples with these tough decisions, the stakes are high. The outcome could reshape the continent’s approach to defense and its relationship with the U.S. Stay tuned as leaders work to chart a path forward in this uncertain landscape.