President Trump’s desire to end the war in Ukraine and pull back American assistance to the country opens the door for a more assertive role for the European Union in the region. But rising populist nationalism and growing economic concerns complicate the situation on the continent. What does the future of Europe look like amid these growing crises? 

Key Takeaways:
- European/Russian Relations:  Europe needs to take more control of its destiny and prepare for long-term confrontation with Russia, as true reconciliation is unlikely.
- Increased Defense Spending: European countries should increase their defense spending to 3-3.5% of GDP to bolster their military capabilities and reduce reliance on the US.
- The Importance of Europe’s Competitiveness: To improve its economic competitiveness compared to the US and China, Europe should focus on completing its internal markets, particularly the Capital Markets Union.
- Fighting Misinformation: Addressing the spread of misinformation is crucial, and European businesses and industries should build their own networks of reliable information to make fact-based decisions.
- Strategic Planning is Vital for Europe: The evolving geopolitical landscape, including conflicts in space, the Arctic, and the high seas, requires ongoing monitoring and strategic planning by European leaders.