Brussels: Europe's defense ambitions are meeting economic challenges as public support remains conditional, according to new research. Europeans are increasingly aware of the need to bolster defense spending amid new security threats and diminishing confidence in U.S. protection, yet funding remains a contentious issue.

According to Anadolu Agency, polling conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) across 15 European countries, encompassing nearly 19,500 respondents, reveals a growing acceptance of increased defense expenditure compared to 2025 levels. However, only 39% of participants are willing to cut public spending to support defense investment, with 45% opposing such measures.

Jana Kobzova, co-director of ECFR's European Security Programme, emphasized that while there is a window of opportunity for enhancing European defense, public backing is not without conditions. "Economic pressures remain the most urgent concern," said Kobzova, underscoring the public's message to governments to prioritize economic stability alongside defense needs.

The survey highlights stark regional differences in support for reducing public spending to fund defense. Estonia and the Netherlands showed the strongest backing, while southern and central European countries, like Italy and Austria, exhibited significant opposition. Kobzova attributes these variations to a mix of historical, cultural, and perceived threat factors, rather than geography alone.

Confidence in European neighbors as security partners remains robust, contrasting with declining faith in U.S. intervention. Kobzova notes that while many Europeans are reluctant to sever ties with the U.S., they acknowledge the need for Europe to assume greater responsibility for its own security. The sentiment is that, although the U.S. may not be the first responder, it could still play a supportive role, albeit selectively and with more demands from allies.

Support for purchasing European-manufactured weapons remains strong, with respondents preferring to bolster local industrial capacity over buying U.S. arms. This preference indicates that public backing for defense spending is contingent on economic benefits and strategic capabilities that enhance European self-reliance.

Germany, Europe's largest economy, exemplifies the complexity of increasing defense spending amid divided public opinion. Kobzova explains that Germany's post-war history contributes to its cautious approach, highlighting the need for political stability and leadership to navigate the necessary shift in defense strategy.

The broader European dilemma lies in balancing increased defense budgets with the potential impact on public services and living standards. Kobzova likens this to paying higher insurance premiums as security risks grow, noting that Europe's security costs are rising in tandem with escalating threats.