The incoming Trump administration plans to focus on China while letting Europe fend for itself. Yet deprioritizing the transatlantic relationship could backfire, pushing Europe closer to Beijing and undermining U.S. interests in the long term.

As the contest between China and the United States ramps up and Russia becomes ever more emboldened in its attacks on European infrastructure, Europeans must invest more to leverage their existing advantages in this realm and protect the competitiveness, resilience, and security of their subsea cable infrastructure.

Ramping up the Joint Expeditionary Force would contribute to European security and prepare the continent for a second Trump administration.

Europe’s digital future cannot hinge on Washington’s whims or the outcome of elections every four years. To achieve a level of technological autonomy, Europe needs targeted investments and responsible innovation in key sectors.

As NATO adapts to its new strategic environment, the Baltic Sea region could be strengthened. Increased regionalization and specialization of capabilities could enhance the alliance as a whole.

Through diplomatic skill and strategy, French President Macron is making a recovery after a series of domestic and international setbacks. He now has a unique opportunity to expand Europe’s margins of maneuver on the global stage.