Reassessing Strategies: Europe and the USA Chart New Courses in a Changing World
After decades of traditional cooperation and established partnerships with the United States, Europe finds itself at the threshold of a new era.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasizes the importance for Europe to develop its own strategic independence, pointing out that global events are shifting the balance of power and compelling the continent to revisit its interests in security, economy, and foreign policy.According to him, Europeans need to understand that their relations with the US are no longer a one-sided, equal partnership.
Against this backdrop, Europe must intensify efforts to diversify partnerships and resources.
Merz hinted that this will underpin a new foreign policy strategy that includes forging closer ties with South American countries, India, Indonesia, Mexico, as well as regions in Africa and beyond G20 nations.He pays particular attention to energy security and Europe’s strategic sovereignty, stressing the need to diversify supply chains to reduce dependence on China.
At the same time, he expressed intentions to maintain close cooperation with China where possible but highlighted that systemic competition with Beijing remains a priority.Regarding US relations, Merz emphasizes that Europe will not diminish its importance as a partner but must also be prepared to act independently, forging new international alliances and expanding cooperation.
This means Europe will gain more autonomy and can actively influence global processes while maintaining strategic partnerships.Currently, European diplomatic circles are actively discussing new cooperation scenarios.
EU sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan, along with a group of experts, is in Washington to discuss new measures against Russia.
Meanwhile, Trump has expressed readiness to move to the second phase of sanctions against Moscow, emphasizing a growing potential for revisiting global security and sanctions policies.