Swedish Prime Minister Addresses Defense Procurement and Security Dependence on the U.S.

STOCKHOLM – During a press conference on Thursday, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson indicated that he does not view the purchase of U.S. weapons as a security risk. However, he emphasized the importance of European nations reducing their reliance on the United States for military equipment and arms.

Kristersson's comments came as he arrived at a European Union summit in Brussels, where leaders are discussing strategies to enhance military capabilities for both Ukraine and EU member states. His remarks followed concerns expressed by Canada, another NATO ally, regarding its dependency on U.S. security provisions. Canada has initiated a review of its contract to acquire fighter jets from Lockheed Martin amid ongoing trade tensions with the Trump administration.

When asked by reporters whether relying on U.S.-made arms could compromise security, Kristersson replied, “No, I would not say that at all. We have good experiences from cooperation with the U.S. defense industry.” His statement underscores Sweden’s productive relationship with American defense contractors.

Kristersson further elaborated on his belief that the European defense sector needs to strengthen. “Both the Swedish defense industry and many European countries would do well from being a little less dependent on the U.S. defense industry,” he stated, highlighting the opportunities for growth within Europe’s own defense capabilities.

Additionally, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called for European leaders to support Ukraine not just with statements of solidarity, but with concrete actions. Her call comes amid heightened tensions as former President Trump pursues a potential rapprochement with Russia, raising concerns about the future of aid to Ukraine.

The discussion around defense procurement is particularly timely, given the recent decision by Washington to briefly halt intelligence sharing and weapons shipments to Ukraine, which has ignited discussions about the risks tied to overreliance on U.S. military assistance.

As European leaders deliberate on bolstering military support for Ukraine and reducing dependency on American defense systems, Kristersson's remarks reflect a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about military autonomy in Europe.

Reporting by Anna Ringstrom; Editing by Terje Solsvik and Kirsten Donovan