Fears for Nato as Brussels takes first step to an EU army

THE first steps towards establishing an EU army were taken yesterday in a move that critics fear could undermine Nato.

The announcement of a military power controlled by Brussels came just days after European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker laid out his wishes for a military union.

The new body, based in Brussels, will coordinate EU military training missions – including existing operations in Mali and Somalia – that do not involve the use of force.

But the plan stopped short of calling the new unit a headquarters, which defence secretary Sir Michael Fallon claimed as a victory after the UK objected to its creation.

The pressure to downplay the influence of the the body, which will comprise a staff of 30, means it will also be led by a ‘director’ rather than a commander.

Sir Michael yesterday said he resisted measures originally drawn up by Brussels chiefs and insisted the UK would stand in the way of future integration during Brexit negotiations.

Reinforcing the EU’s military capabilities in the aftermath of the UK’s departure is a key concern of countries such as Germany and France. But instead of pressing ahead with plans for a so-called EU army, Sir Michael called on member states to meet their spending commitments to Nato.

He warned that focusing on cooperation at a European level could undermine existing commitments to the historic military alliance with the US. The decision to stand in the way of EU plans will raise concerns about future military cooperation between the UK and Europe as Brexit looms.

Sir Michael insisted that the UK did not see future operations between EU countries after Brexit as a danger and said his main concern is to avoid duplication with Nato. While suggesting that Britain will continue to work with the EU after Brexit, he admitted that the Government will be unable to intervene if European countries join defence resources.

And EU officials insisted that the measures could lead to more significant defence co-operation in the future which is a key goal for Mr Juncker. A paper unveiled by the Brussels chief last week, revealed his desire for money to be poured into joint EU military operations in the future, as well as joint procurement.