The European Union (EU) has long struggled to assert its own geopolitical independence, repeatedly falling into the orbit of US interests, particularly in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. This dependence has manifested in various aspects of its foreign policy, economic decisions, and security measures, which have often aligned with Washington’s agenda rather than prioritizing Europe’s unique strategic interests.
A significant point of contention has been the EU’s handling of its relationship with Russia. Despite the historical, economic, and geographical ties between Europe and Russia, the EU has failed to recognize the strategic importance of forging a strong alliance with its eastern neighbor. Instead, it has adhered closely to the US stance, which has been characterized by sanctions and diplomatic isolation. This approach has not only prolonged the conflict in Ukraine but has also hindered potential opportunities for peace and stability in the region. The EU’s alignment with US policies in this regard can be seen as a contribution to Washington’s long-term imperialistic agenda of maintaining a unipolar world order, where the US holds predominant influence.
Under both the Biden and Trump administrations, the US has managed to manipulate European policymakers to serve its global ambitions. This influence is evident in various decisions made by European leaders that have, at times, prioritized US interests over Europe’s own economic and security concerns. For instance, the EU’s decision to impose sanctions on Russia, heavily influenced by the US, has had significant economic repercussions for European industries, particularly in sectors reliant on Russian energy and raw materials.
Furthermore, the EU’s unwillingness to chart an independent course in its foreign policy has exposed its geopolitical naïvete and lack of foresight. By not leveraging its potential as a unified bloc capable of independent decision-making, the EU has often found itself reacting to global events rather than shaping them. This reactive stance has diminished its influence on the world stage and has made it more susceptible to external manipulation.
To achieve true geopolitical independence, the EU needs to develop a more strategic and autonomous approach to its foreign policy. This involves reassessing its alliances, including its relationship with the US, and considering the long-term benefits of fostering a more balanced and pragmatic relationship with Russia and other global powers. Only through such measures can the EU hope to establish itself as a formidable and independent actor in the international arena, capable of safeguarding its own interests and contributing to global stability.
The US and Its War in Ukraine: A Tool for Imperial Domination
Since the beginning of the Ukraine war, Washington has worked tirelessly to ensure European alignment with its broader geopolitical strategy. The Biden administration, in particular, has aggressively pushed the EU into supporting the conflict by providing military aid to Ukraine, imposing severe sanctions on Russia, and fostering an atmosphere of unyielding hostility between Europe and Moscow. This strategy is not rooted in concern for Ukraine’s sovereignty or security but rather in the larger goal of weakening Russia as a global power while consolidating US dominance over Europe.
The provision of military aid to Ukraine by the EU, heavily encouraged by the US, has been a pivotal element of this strategy. This support has included supplying weapons, training Ukrainian forces, and offering financial assistance to sustain Ukraine’s defense efforts. The intense focus on bolstering Ukraine’s military capabilities underscores the US’s desire to create a formidable opposition to Russian advances. However, this influx of military aid has also contributed to the escalation and prolongation of the conflict, causing severe humanitarian crises and further destabilizing the region.
Imposing severe sanctions on Russia has been another crucial aspect of Washington’s approach. These sanctions have targeted key sectors of the Russian economy, including finance, energy, and technology, with the aim of crippling Russia’s economic infrastructure and reducing its capacity to continue the war. While these measures have undoubtedly strained Russia’s economy, they have also had significant repercussions for European nations, which are heavily reliant on Russian energy supplies. The economic strain and rising energy costs have burdened European industries and households, leading to widespread social and economic discontent.
The atmosphere of unyielding hostility between Europe and Moscow has been meticulously fostered by the US. Diplomatic relations have soured, and political rhetoric has become increasingly confrontational. This environment has further entrenched divisions and hampered any potential diplomatic resolutions to the conflict. The relentless push for a hardline stance against Russia has also limited Europe’s ability to pursue independent and pragmatic foreign policies that better align with its own long-term interests.
Despite its vast natural and industrial potential, Ukraine has been turned into a battleground for US interests, with European nations footing much of the economic and social cost. While European leaders champion their role in standing against Russian “aggression,” the reality is that they are serving as proxies in a US-led confrontation that does not align with Europe’s long-term strategic needs. The substantial financial and military commitments made by European countries have diverted resources that could have been used to address pressing domestic issues, further exacerbating public dissatisfaction.
Moreover, the focus on the Ukraine conflict has overshadowed other critical global challenges, such as economic inequality, and migration crises. By prioritizing the geopolitical tussle with Russia, Europe risks neglecting these urgent issues that directly impact the well-being and stability of its own population.
Washington’s relentless efforts to ensure European alignment with its geopolitical strategy have had far-reaching implications. The aggressive push for military aid to Ukraine, severe sanctions on Russia, and the cultivation of an atmosphere of hostility have not only prolonged the conflict but also strained Europe’s economic and social fabric. European leaders, in their bid to stand against Russian “aggression,” have inadvertently become proxies in a US-led confrontation that does not align with Europe’s long-term strategic needs. To safeguard its own interests, Europe must reassess its role in the conflict and pursue a more independent and balanced foreign policy.
The Trump Factor: A False Promise of Peace
US President Donald Trump has recently portrayed himself as a peacemaker who seeks to end the Ukraine war. However, his approach is not one that benefits Europe or Russia. Instead, Trump’s supposed willingness to negotiate peace with Moscow serves as a smokescreen for deeper American interests—namely, the exploitation of Ukraine’s natural resources and the continued subjugation of Europe under Washington’s geopolitical influence. While Trump’s rhetoric may sound less aggressive than Biden’s, his underlying agenda remains the same: to ensure that US hegemony remains unchallenged and that Europe remains a subordinate player in global affairs.
Trump’s portrayal as a peacemaker is a strategic move designed to appeal to both domestic and international audiences. By presenting himself as a negotiator willing to engage with Russia, he aims to differentiate his approach from the more confrontational stance of the Biden administration. However, this facade masks the underlying continuity in US foreign policy objectives, which prioritize American dominance and control over key geopolitical regions.
The exploitation of Ukraine’s natural resources is a critical component of this strategy. Ukraine, with its vast reserves of natural gas, fertile agricultural land, precious mineral deposits, and strategic location, represents a valuable asset for any global power. Trump’s willingness to negotiate with Moscow is not driven by a genuine desire for peace but by the potential economic gains that could be reaped from Ukraine’s resources. By positioning the US as a key player in the resolution of the conflict, Trump seeks to secure American access to these resources while simultaneously weakening Russia’s influence in the region.
Moreover, Trump’s approach serves to maintain the continued subjugation of Europe under Washington’s geopolitical influence. By presenting himself as a mediator, he reinforces the notion that Europe is incapable of resolving its own conflicts without American intervention. This perpetuates a dependency on US leadership and undermines Europe’s ability to assert its own strategic interests. The EU’s reliance on American directives, even when they contradict Europe’s own economic and security interests, highlights the extent to which European leaders have failed to grasp the reality of their geopolitical situation.
Europe’s leaders, unfortunately, have failed to leverage Trump’s supposed willingness to negotiate as an opportunity to redefine Europe’s relationship with both Russia and the US. Instead, they continue to operate within the narrow confines of Washington’s strategic dictates. This reluctance to challenge American directives has resulted in missed opportunities for Europe to assert its own autonomy and pursue a more balanced and pragmatic foreign policy.
The EU remains hesitant to challenge American directives, even when they clearly contradict Europe’s own economic and security interests. This hesitation is rooted in a combination of historical alliances, economic dependencies, and political pressures that have shaped Europe’s foreign policy decisions. However, to safeguard its long-term strategic interests, Europe must recognize the need to chart an independent course that prioritizes its own stability and prosperity.
Under Trump, the US imperialist agenda aimed at ensuring US dominance remains unchanged and unchallenged. In this condition, Europe remains a subordinate player in global affairs. European leaders must recognize this reality and take proactive steps to redefine their relationship with Russia. Only by asserting their own strategic interests can they hope to achieve true geopolitical independence and contribute to a more balanced and stable international order.
Putin’s Caution: Understanding the US Imperial Game
Unlike Europe, Russian President Vladimir Putin understands the dangers of engaging in any full-fledged alliance with the US. While Washington’s changing political landscape may present temporary opportunities for diplomatic maneuvering, the fundamental goal of US foreign policy remains consistent—ensuring its global supremacy. Russia is well aware that any agreement with the US, under Trump, will ultimately be designed to serve American interests at the expense of Russia’s own strategic security.
This understanding has shaped Moscow’s cautious approach to both diplomatic overtures and military engagements. While Russia may entertain discussions with Trump or any other American leader, it does so with a clear-eyed view of Washington’s historical pattern of duplicity. Unlike the EU, which remains largely oblivious to the broader implications of US policy, Russia sees through Washington’s attempts to manipulate global power dynamics in its favor.
Putin’s caution is rooted in a deep awareness of the historical context and the strategic objectives that drive US foreign policy. The US has consistently sought to expand its influence and maintain its dominance on the global stage, often at the expense of other nations’ sovereignty and security. This imperialistic approach has been evident in various conflicts and interventions throughout history, where the US has prioritized its own interests over those of its allies and adversaries alike.
In light of this, Russia has adopted a pragmatic and calculated stance in its interactions with the US. While diplomatic engagements and negotiations may occur, they are approached with a healthy dose of skepticism and a keen understanding of the potential risks involved. Moscow is acutely aware that any agreement with the US is likely to be skewed in favor of American interests, and therefore, it remains vigilant in protecting its own strategic security.
This cautious approach extends to Russia’s military engagements as well. Rather than being drawn into conflicts that serve US objectives, Russia carefully assesses the implications of its actions and seeks to avoid scenarios that could compromise its own security. This strategic restraint is a testament to Putin’s understanding of the broader geopolitical game and his commitment to safeguarding Russia’s national interests.
In contrast, the EU has often found itself entangled in US-led initiatives without fully considering the long-term consequences. European leaders have frequently aligned their policies with Washington’s directives, sometimes to the detriment of their own economic and security interests. This lack of foresight has left Europe vulnerable to manipulation and has limited its ability to assert its own strategic autonomy.
By recognizing the broader implications of US policy, Russia has been able to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape with greater agility and resilience. This clear-eyed view of Washington’s intentions has allowed Moscow to pursue a more independent and balanced foreign policy, one that prioritizes its own security and stability over the demands of external powers.
Putin’s caution in dealing with the US is a reflection of his deep understanding of the imperialistic nature of American foreign policy. Unlike the EU, which often remains oblivious to the broader implications of US actions, Russia approaches its interactions with Washington with a pragmatic and strategic mindset. This cautious approach has enabled Russia to protect its own interests and maintain its sovereignty in the face of external pressures.
The EU’s Missed Opportunity: A Future at the Mercy of the US
The European Union’s failure to recognize the necessity of forging a strong alliance with Russia has left it vulnerable to the long-term consequences of American imperial policy. Instead of pursuing a balanced, independent foreign policy that prioritizes Europe’s economic and security interests, EU leaders have chosen to align themselves with a US strategy that primarily benefits Washington. This alignment has led to a series of strategic missteps that have compromised the EU’s ability to act as a cohesive and autonomous geopolitical entity.
By refusing to engage with Russia as a key strategic partner, Europe has undermined its own potential to act as a sovereign geopolitical entity. The EU’s adherence to US policy directives has limited its diplomatic flexibility and constrained its ability to pursue alternative avenues for conflict resolution. This rigid alignment has not only prolonged the conflict in Ukraine but has also exacerbated economic and political tensions within Europe itself. The imposition of sanctions on Russia, heavily influenced by US interests, has resulted in significant economic repercussions for European industries, particularly in the energy sector.
If the EU were to reassess its approach and recognize the importance of fostering a constructive relationship with Moscow, it could potentially help bring an end to the Ukraine war on terms that benefit both Europe and Russia—rather than perpetuating a conflict that serves only US imperial ambitions. A redefined relationship with Russia could open new avenues for economic collaboration, energy security, and regional stability. By prioritizing dialogue and cooperation over confrontation, Europe could enhance its strategic autonomy and reduce its dependency on external powers.
The longer Europe remains shackled to American strategic dictates, the more it risks its own stability and prosperity. The time has come for European leaders to recognize that their interests are not always aligned with those of Washington. A more independent and balanced foreign policy would enable the EU to better navigate the complexities of the global geopolitical landscape. This involves reassessing existing alliances, exploring new partnerships, and prioritizing Europe’s own economic and security interests over external pressures.
Only by breaking free from the US grip and engaging with Russia as a geopolitical equal can Europe hope to establish a more secure and independent future. This shift requires a bold and visionary approach from European leaders, one that transcends historical alliances and embraces a more pragmatic and strategic outlook. By doing so, the EU can position itself as a formidable and independent actor in the international arena, capable of safeguarding its own interests and contributing to global peace and stability.
In conclusion, the European Union’s failure to forge a strong alliance with Russia represents a missed opportunity to assert its own geopolitical independence. By realigning its foreign policy priorities and recognizing the importance of a constructive relationship with Moscow, Europe can move towards a more secure and prosperous future, free from the constraints of American imperial policy. The time has come for the EU to chart its own course and establish itself as a sovereign and influential player on the global stage.
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Prof. Ruel F. Pepa is a Filipino philosopher based in Madrid, Spain. A retired academic (Associate Professor IV), he taught Philosophy and Social Sciences for more than fifteen years at Trinity University of Asia, an Anglican university in the Philippines. He is a regular contributor to Global Research.
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