US objects to European push to buy arms locally

US officials have told European allies they want them to keep buying American-made arms, amid recent moves by the European Union to limit US manufacturers’ participation in weapons tenders, live sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

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The messages delivered by Washington in recent weeks come as the EU takes steps to boost Europe’s weapons industry, while potentially limiting purchases of certain types of US arms. The Trump administration has deeply unnerved European allies, prompting many to ask if the United States is a reliable partner.

In mid-March, the European Commission, the EU’s executive body, proposed boosting military spending and pooling resources on joint defense projects, as Europe girds for decreased US military engagement under President Donald Trump. One of the proposed measures could mean a smaller role for non-EU companies, including those based in the US and the United Kingdom, experts say. In a March 25 meeting,