In an exclusive statement to The Brussels Morning Newspaper, Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Udo Bullmann emphasized the urgent need for the European Union (EU) to form genuine strategic alliances and forge new partnerships to assert itself amid mounting global geopolitical challenges. Bullmann was strongly critical of the EU’s current approach, particularly regarding recent foreign policy decisions, and called for a new agenda centered on sustainability, social justice, and true partnership with both established and emerging global actors.
Who is Udo Bullmann?
Udo Bullmann, a seasoned German MEP known for his expertise in international affairs and social policy, has been a prominent voice on the future direction of the EU’s role on the world stage. Having served multiple terms in the European Parliament, Bullmann is recognized for his advocacy of multilateralism, democratic values, and strategic economic reform across Europe.
Europe’s Global Role and the Importance of New Partnerships
Asked about the importance of forging new partnerships, MEP Udo Bullmann told The Brussels Morning Newspaper that
“Europe has to re-define its future and its global role. Squeezed between a self-assertive China and Trump’s egomania it will only survive as a credible anchor for international rules and human rights, together with like-minded actors who share the same interests and values.”
The MEP argued that Europe’s economic strength and size give it the ability to “forge strategic alliances for sustainability and just transition,” which Bullmann identifies as “the core of our forthcoming agenda.”
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Criticism of the Current EU Approach
In response to The Brussels Morning Newspaper’s question about weaknesses exposed by the current “Leyen deal,” Bullmann was forthright:
“Ursula von der Leyen’s deal of weakness as well as her foreign policy approach falls short of these urgent requirements.”
He specifically cited agreements which imposed “15% tariffs for Europa and 0% for US exports, leaving European steel and aluminium producers with 50%,” calling such decisions the product of moves “rushed through to get something done at all.” According to the MEP, this approach leaves the EU vulnerable to leaders like Trump:
“Trump is someone who looks for your weak ankle. He smells if you don’t confront him with strength and self-confidence.”
Strategic Alliances for Sustainable Progress
On the subject of which alliances the EU should prioritize, Bullmann pointed out that
“next to countries like the UK, Canada and Japan, major parts of South America, Africa and Asia are waiting for Europe.”
He stressed that many southern countries “have felt neglected or simply exploited by Europe for long,” and advocated for “win-win partnerships to the benefit of both sides instead of ‘extractive imperialism.’” The MEP emphasized that future alliances must prioritize “decent job creation and against growing inequalities,” while naming Brazil and South Africa as examples of nations moving in the right direction towards stable, democratic societies—partnerships with whom Europe should actively pursue.
By urging Brussels to move beyond old habits and adopt a more ambitious and genuinely cooperative approach, Bullmann delivers a clear message: only through sincere, equitable partnerships can the EU remain an influential force for stability and human rights in a rapidly transforming world.
