As the United States deserts Ukraine, and Europe with it, leaders on the continent are closing ranks and arming up to defend their democracies against Russia. In Britain, Prime Minister Keir Starmer elicits comparisons to Winston Churchill. In France, President Emmanuel Macron is channeling Charles de Gaulle's argument for independence from Washington. Germany changed its strict budget rules to spend more on defense. Marco Rubio, the U.S. secretary of state, came to Brussels yesterday to urge them on.

But Russia isn't the only threat to democracy in Europe. Far-right and autocratic parties here have gained ground for a decade. They're already part of the government in six capitals. And the impulse to ramp up defense may energize their voters.

Europe is rearming to battle fascism and autocracy abroad. Unfortunately, this may also empower fascism and autocracy at home.