Pavel: European NATO members must ensure security even without US

European members of NATO must be capable of guaranteeing their own security even in the event of disagreements with the United States, Czech President Petr Pavel said on Thursday. Speaking during a debate with students in Olomouc, Pavel said the European Union has sufficient economic and military capacity, but must work harder to become a strong and respected global player. Pavel also commented on US President Donald Trump, saying his unpredictable style should not be seen only as a threat. Likening it to an “Arab bazaar”, Pavel said Trump’s tactics may be shocking but have often pushed Europe to act, especially on defence and security.