As we look back at the tumultuous events of the past two decades, it’s impossible to ignore the seismic shifts in global geopolitics. Georgia, Syria, Ukraine, Israel: all these recent and current conflicts serve as stark reminders that our world order is fraying at the seams.
The violations of longstanding norms of international law by a permanent member of the UN Security Council have released a Pandora’s box of warlike tendencies. War is no longer mostly confined to history books; it is reemerging as the ultimate arbiter, underlining the law of force as the new rule.
This growing instability isn’t merely a distant menace but is inexorably creeping towards Europe. The pressing question now is whether the EU can muster the strength needed to make its diplomatic efforts truly effective, and work towards European Defense.
The European Union must now grapple with the reality of power. This means crafting mechanisms within its member states to ensure the integrity of our political model, safeguard our interests, and support our allies.
To gain the respect of increasingly emboldened global actors, Europe cannot shy away from the military dimension. The need for a strong defense is evident. We’ve got to aspire to be more self-reliant.
At the moment, we seek reassurance in grand alliances and issue calls for restraint to international actors who are boldly disregarding them. The challenge before us is clear: will Europe seize the moment to secure its future in a rapidly evolving world?
Christos Floros 