TX GOP Rep Crenshaw Blasts Europe for All Talk, No Cash

Texas Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw has blasted European allies over their lackluster defense spending and military contributions to the Ukraine conflict. The combat veteran didn’t mince words on Politico’s “Power Play” podcast, telling European leaders they need to put up or “shut up” about peace negotiations.

At a Glance

  • Rep. Dan Crenshaw told European nations to increase defense spending or “shut up” about Ukraine negotiations
  • Crenshaw suggested Europe hasn’t “earned a seat” at the negotiation table without stronger military commitments
  • He proposed deploying 50,000 European troops on Poland’s border to gain real leverage with Russia
  • The U.S. shoulders over 50% of NATO’s funding burden while European nations lag behind
  • Crenshaw’s comments align with the Trump administration’s push for increased European defense contributions

Europe’s Military Shortcomings

In a no-holds-barred critique, Rep. Dan Crenshaw laid bare the inadequate military contributions from European allies as the Ukraine conflict continues. The Texas Republican made it clear that Europe’s unwillingness to properly fund their own defense undermines their credibility in peace negotiations. His message was simple – Europeans complaining about their limited role in Ukraine peace talks need to step up with real military commitments.

Crenshaw’s frustration stems from the stark imbalance in NATO funding, where America contributes over 50% while European partners fall short of their obligations. Despite the immediate threat on their doorstep, many European countries have resisted meaningful increases to their defense budgets, even as Russia continues its aggressive posturing. This failure to invest in deterrence has allowed Putin to act with impunity while European leaders wring their hands from the sidelines.

“Put Up or Shut Up”

Crenshaw didn’t sugarcoat his message to European allies who want more say in peace negotiations while contributing little militarily. His blunt assessment cuts through diplomatic niceties to expose the fundamental problem with Europe’s approach to the conflict – they want influence without investment. The Republican Congressman made it clear that Europe’s refusal to project power undermines their negotiating position.

“Unless you’re willing to put troops on the ground and increase the leverage for the West … Unless you’re willing to do that, shut up,” Crenshaw said. “Shut up, and let Trump do the best he can.”

The former Navy SEAL specifically proposed that European nations place 50,000 troops on Poland’s border to demonstrate real commitment and create leverage against Russia. Without such displays of resolve, Crenshaw argues, Europe lacks credibility at the negotiating table. His demands align with President Trump’s longstanding criticism of NATO allies who fail to meet their defense spending commitments while enjoying American protection.

Trump’s Peace Initiative

While European leaders like German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius demand involvement in peace negotiations, Crenshaw praised President Trump’s direct engagement with both Ukrainian and Russian officials to end the conflict. The administration’s diplomatic efforts represent the kind of decisive action that stands in stark contrast to Europe’s ineffectual posturing. Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to advance peace talks.

“That’s what starts to worry Putin,” Crenshaw said. “And until Putin is actually scared of y’all in Europe, he’s going to keep coming. And that’s what you need to learn.”

Some European nations have shown signs of heeding the call. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged to increase Britain’s defense spending to 2.5% of GDP, amounting to nearly $17 billion in additional funding. This stands in contrast to America’s 3.3% of GDP ($880 billion) commitment to defense in 2023. Until more European nations follow suit, Crenshaw suggests they lack the moral authority to dictate terms for peace.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR