The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: Conversations from Aspen, Part 1: Shashank Joshi on European Security and Iris Ferguson on the Arctic
Jul 23, 2025
Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor for The Economist, dives into how European security dynamics are evolving as countries seek independence from U.S. defense. He highlights the debate over arms spending versus building independent capabilities post-Ukraine conflict. Iris Ferguson, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for the Arctic, discusses the Arctic's strategic importance amid major power competition, emphasizing critical challenges like climate change and the need for international cooperation. Together, they explore a new landscape of global security.
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Europe's Defense Transition Challenges
- Europe is transitioning to greater self-reliance in defense but still relies significantly on the U.S. for unique capabilities.
- Fragmented European defense industries and urgency in arms procurement challenge building an indigenous capability rapidly.
European Military Culture Shift
- European military culture differs greatly between east and west, with limited appetite for conscription in many countries.
- Recent crises have sparked more serious domestic resilience discussions and military culture shifts in some European states.
NATO Spending Fuels European Momentum
- NATO defense spending commitments signal substantial capability investment and a chance for gradual European security autonomy.
- American commitment remains vital; momentum for European defense may wane if U.S. security assurances ease.