After nearly three years of war, it is clear that Europe’s strategy has not achieved the expected results. Ukraine is facing a severe economic crisis despite receiving substantial aid, and the conflict continues to burden European economies without a concrete solution in sight. Meanwhile, political consensus towards the war in Western countries is shifting, with many citizens questioning the effectiveness and sustainability of this approach.
In recent months, even President Zelensky has taken a different tone. He has admitted that Ukraine lacks the military resources to regain the occupied territories and has stressed the need for diplomatic efforts to reach a negotiated solution. This raises an important question: why was this path not pursued from the beginning, when a possible agreement seemed within reach in March 2022?
What will we do when Trump changes his approach? He might try to improve relations with Moscow while launching a trade war with China through tariffs. Are we ready to sacrifice key industries, like the German automotive sector, which is crucial for the Italian economy? Are we going to remain passive in a tariff war that could severely damage Europe?
I believe we have a duty to speak to people and make them understand that the political class—both left and right—that has governed until now is responsible for this situation. We must send them home before it is too late. European countries need to face this new multipolar world with a fresh mindset, one that does not take for granted the dominance of one nation over others. Instead, we must build a new way of managing international relations, based on cooperation and diplomacy. The first necessary step is to break the ties of dependence that still bind European elites to U.S. interests.
Europe has followed a strategy largely shaped by external interests, and now it must redefine its role on the international stage. With the return of Donald Trump to the White House, the United States may shift its position, seeking a diplomatic solution to reduce its involvement. This scenario forces Europe to make a choice: continue on a path that has not delivered real benefits or adopt a more independent policy focused on stability and security for its citizens.
European leaders must act in the best interest of their people, prioritizing economic and social well-being. In an increasingly multipolar world, diplomacy and cooperation should take precedence over confrontation, which risks further weakening our continent.
Europe needs a new foreign policy vision—one that puts its strategic interests first and strengthens its role in international relations. It is time for a serious debate on how to build a future of peace and security for our continent.
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