Global Outlook

Even before taking office, President Trump had clearly told Europeans that the US military commitment in Europe would be drastically reduced. Although this did not come as a surprise, in this new geopolitical situation, most governments, military experts, and many mainstream media in Europe switched into crisis mode.

Instead of investing in weapons of mass destruction, making EU defence more efficient should be the priority as well as integrating Russia into a larger collective security organization.

The armistice agreement that ended the Korean War in 1953 has been mentioned as a possible model for how to end the fighting in Ukraine. This makes sense. The Trump administration, however, seems to opt for a quick deal combining “ceasefires in place” with vain prospects of subsequently reaching a genuine peace agreement.

The Gaza ceasefire is faltering, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to wipe out Hamas and US President Donald Trump is keen to turn Gaza into a Middle Eastern Riviera.

There are concerns that Europe could be left on the sidelines if Trump forges a strategic partnership with Russia to help the US manage its rivalry with China. Korea will soon confront the same security dilemma Europe currently faces

With U.S. and Russian leaders engaged in direct talks in Saudi Arabia over the future of the conflict, many are left wondering whether the Ukraine crisis could become another Afghanistan or Vietnam