Nine EU states to sign off on Macron’s military pact

Nine EU states will on Monday sign up to formalize a plan for setting up a European military force, an idea championed by French President Emmanuel Macron who envisions strategic autonomy for European defense.

The U.K., which has traditionally been reluctant of creating a European defense body that challenges NATO structures, is backing Macron’s initiative as it seeks to maintain defense ties post Brexit, notes The Guardian.

France favors a small group of European countries for military pact as it would minimize hurdles like red tape and political leanings, resulting in speedier response to crises, reports Express.