Topic: Military Treaty

Tensions between the US and Russia regarding arms treaties were characterized as a potential ploy to drive defense spending and stimulate the economy. The discussion noted Donald Trump's affinity for the military, possibly stemming from his education at a military academy. The "ratcheting up" of rhetoric is viewed by some as a manufactured crisis to justify increased production of "war stuff."

U.S. military strategy in Europe is shifting toward rotational brigade combat teams to satisfy NATO Article 5 commitments. Concurrently, Amendment 50 halts nuclear threat reduction activities with Russia until the Kremlin proves it is not supporting the Syrian government's suppression of its people.

A new legal framework allows United States civilians and military assets to participate in European Union crisis management missions globally. This builds on previous cooperation in Kosovo and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The agreement streamlines the process for the U.S. to act as a military force for the "United States of Europe."

Britain and France have signed a new defense cooperation treaty that includes sharing aircraft carriers and nuclear testing facilities. While officials claim this is not a loss of sovereignty, the move is seen as a response to declining national budgets and a way to form a military partnership outside of German-led EU structures. The treaty allows for joint operations and a rapid reaction force.