**Europe Must Fill the Power Vacuum Left by Trump’s Shift in US Foreign Policy**
As the world continues to grapple with the implications of a new era of great-power competition, one thing is clear: Europe cannot afford to be left behind. The radical changes in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump have led to a power vacuum on the continent, which must be filled by innovation, defense unity, and strategic leadership if Europe is to secure its future in a multipolar world.
**The End of the Transatlantic Alliance**
Trump’s approach to diplomacy has been described as transactional, with a focus on short-term gains over long-term alliances. This shift away from Europe has left a void that Trump believes can be filled by a more assertive and self-reliant America. However, this view is misguided, and the consequences for Europe will be severe.
The transatlantic alliance, which has been a cornerstone of European security and stability for decades, is in danger of collapse. The Ukraine war has exposed the deep divisions within NATO, and Trump’s refusal to take a strong stance against Russia has emboldened Moscow to pursue its own interests on the continent.
**A New Era of Great-Power Competition**
The world is now facing a new era of great-power competition, where the United States, China, and Russia will vie for influence and dominance. Europe cannot afford to be left out of this competition, as it risks being carved up by the three major powers. The recent “coalition of the willing” in support of Ukraine is a first step towards freeing Europe from its dependency on the US, but much more needs to be done.
**Germany’s Central Role**
Germany will have a crucial role to play in these efforts. For years, it seemed to have lost sight of Europe, engaging in navel-gazing and prioritizing domestic issues over European integration. However, with incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz promising to strengthen Germany’s defense posture and infrastructure, the country is now poised to take on a more prominent role in European affairs.
**Europe Must Find New Sources of Economic Strength**
Beyond addressing security concerns, Europe must also find new sources of economic strength. Reducing bureaucracy and creating attractive conditions for companies are essential steps, but they will not be enough. Europe needs stronger incentives to promote innovation and research and development, as well as a more robust economy that can compete with the likes of China.
**A New Structure for Cooperation**
Europe must develop a new structure for cooperation, one that includes non-EU members and is led by countries like France and the UK. A provisional security council should be established to work towards establishing a European defense union that also includes Germany, Poland, and Italy. This will require coordination with NATO and the EU, as well as a clear understanding of membership and contributions to conventional and nuclear deterrence.
**The Future of European Peace and Prosperity**
The future of European peace and prosperity is now in Europeans’ hands. Europe must work together to fill the power vacuum left by Trump’s shift in US foreign policy. By prioritizing innovation, defense unity, and strategic leadership, Europe can secure its place in a multipolar world and ensure that its interests are protected.
**Commentary**
As the world grapples with the implications of a new era of great-power competition, one thing is clear: Europe cannot afford to be left behind. The radical changes in US foreign policy under President Trump have led to a power vacuum on the continent, which must be filled by innovation, defense unity, and strategic leadership if Europe is to secure its future in a multipolar world.
**Opinion**
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.