When the West seeks its footing
The London Defence Conference 2025 brought together policymakers, scholars, and representatives from industry and defence sectors to address the shifting global security landscape. In the shadow of a United States increasingly signalling withdrawal – both rhetorically and practically – the discussions were marked by a sense of seriousness, but also by opportunity.
Rather than focusing solely on how to address threats from, the often referred to as the CRINK states – China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, much of the dialogue centred around how Europe – together with the United Kingdom – can step forward as an independent and credible actor within the global security architecture.
Trust in the United States – a thing of the past?
One of the conference’s recurring undercurrents was the question: Can we still take the transatlantic relationship for granted? Several panels highlighted a fundamental shift in how Europe perceives its reliance on the U.S. Frustration – and at times even despair – was voiced in response to President Trump’s rhetoric, especially in reference to the infamous Signal group chats where European allies were dismissed as “freeloaders.” The language was sharp, but the reaction in the room was unmistakable: something essential in the mutual respect had been fractured.
Despite diverging views in Washington, some congressional participants reiterated the importance of restoring strong ties with Europe. This duality, between institutional goodwill and presidential antagonism, underscores the uncertainty surrounding the U.S. strategic direction.
Europe steps up – and stands firmer than before
A striking takeaway from several panels was that, despite mounting geopolitical tensions, Europe appears more strategically aligned than it has in years. Speakers from both political and defence communities noted that recent challenges – from Trump’s rhetoric and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to the EU moving beyond Brexit and China’s growing global influence – have paradoxically drawn European countries closer together. Defence cooperation is deepening, national defence budgets are increasing, and the collective tone is more aligned than it has been in a long time.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as well as Secretary of State for Defence John Healy, made it clear that the UK is ready to assume a leadership role within NATO. This was not framed in competition with the United States – quite the opposite – but as a necessary step in a world where security vacuums are unacceptable. If one actor steps back, others must step forward.
EU–UK relations – a common strategic ground
A strong message echoed throughout nearly every panel: the relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom matters more than ever. Despite the aftershocks of Brexit, there was a shared and pragmatic understanding that security transcends institutional divisions. Whether through NATO or bilateral cooperation, European unity is increasingly viewed as not just desirable, but necessary.
Participants frequently emphasised that the UK and EU must act in concert to shape NATO’s future and maintain stability in the face of growing global pressure. The Baltic region was often highlighted as a strategic focus, with speakers calling for intensified collaboration between the UK and countries bordering the eastern flank – Sweden, Finland, the Baltics, and Poland.
The tone was cooperative, forward-looking, and grounded in realism. It reflected an understanding that, in an era of strategic competition, Europe cannot afford fragmentation – especially not in defence and security.
Sweden – a model for democratic resilience
One particularly striking observation was how frequently Sweden was mentioned as a positive example – not only for its recent NATO accession, but also for how it has engaged its population in the evolving defence discourse.
John Healey, among others, pointed to Sweden’s approach to public communication around defence budgets and military readiness. The Swedish government’s ability to bring the public along in major security decisions was praised as a model for democratic legitimacy in times of crisis.
In an era when defence policy can no longer be handled behind closed doors, the Swedish case shows that transparency and engagement with civil society are not just democratic virtues – they are strategic assets. If democracies are to withstand pressure from authoritarian actors, they must be resilient not only in military terms but also in their public institutions and national unity.
Conclusion
The London Defence Conference made one thing abundantly clear: Europe can no longer afford to be a reactive actor. As the transatlantic bond becomes less predictable, the continent must find new ways to anchor its security – and its credibility – through action, not assumption.
This is not about replacing the United States but about complementing it with stronger European agency. In this shifting landscape, Sweden finds itself in a uniquely strategic position. As both a bridge-builder and a contributor, Sweden’s value lies not only in its military integration via NATO, but in the trust it has cultivated at home and abroad. Its example demonstrates that public trust, clear communication, and institutional coherence are no longer just idealistic goals – they are operational requirements for security in a democratic society.
Sweden’s role moving forward is not merely to align, but to help lead – particularly in Northern Europe, where deterrence, resilience, and diplomacy intersect. By investing in regional partnerships, supporting a revitalised UK–EU strategic dialogue, and continuing to lead by example in civil-military cohesion, Sweden can help shape a European security order that is both credible and legitimate.
If the post-war European order was built in the shadow of American leadership, the current moment calls for something different: a Europe that steps forward not out of fear, but out of conviction.
Summary
The London Defence Conference 2025 marked a pivotal moment for Europe’s evolving role in global security. Amid transatlantic uncertainty, participants called for greater European unity, deeper UK–EU cooperation, and more transparent defence engagement with the public. Sweden emerged as a key example of democratic resilience and strategic clarity – a country well-positioned to help chart a more self-reliant, secure, and credible European future.