The world is heading into a period where foundational rules once taken for granted no longer apply. The EU urgently needs to emerge from its peace dividend softness and build a power model that allows it to shape new alliances and deter adversaries.
Putin’s war on Ukraine marks the end of the near abroad—the idea that Russia enjoys a special status in much of the post-Soviet space. But while Russia’s neighbors are seeking greater independence, they are not necessarily turning West.
Moscow is pushing Ankara toward lasting antagonism with the rest of NATO by putting pressure on their economic and political ties. But the trend is not irreversible, and Turkey has proved it can adjust its policies to appease the West.
Germany could shape the outcomes of the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Its reluctance to do so reveals a leadership unwilling to match its economic strength with political influence.
Carnegie Europe is honored to host a policy discussion on the future of transatlantic trade relations featuring U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai.
Rather than propping up the status quo, farmers should focus on the transition to more sustainable methods of food production. EU institutions and governments must support them in this endeavor.
Turkey continues its balancing act, siding with the West on Ukraine but relying on Russia to pursue its ambitions of becoming a regional energy center. While progress toward bringing Turkey closer to the West will have its limits, there is scope for more cooperation between Brussels and Ankara.
