The war in Ukraine has exposed an unpleasant truth. Europe’s cherished values, so often cited as the moral foundation of the continent, aren’t enough.
Respect for human dignity. Freedom. Democracy. Equality. The rule of law. Human rights. Noble ideals, all of them. But on their own, they are just words that sound stirring in speeches and crumble when faced by a force that operates with absolute clarity.
Brexit, unchecked immigration, economic stagnation, pandemic – each has chipped away at unity, leaving a bloc that is reactive rather than strategic. Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin’s intentions are unwavering. He sees himself as the restorer of Russian sovereignty, a man reclaiming what was lost. His actions are driven by this unshakable belief.
And now, enter Donald Trump. Where Putin sees power in historical destiny, Trump sees it in leverage. He treats politics as he does business – deals, assets, land, growth. His latest remarks about NATO make his position clear: if you want America’s protection, it will cost you.
Europe has no comparable vision. It cannot agree on what it stands for, and it certainly cannot articulate where it wants to go. The result? A continent that is on the back foot, responding rather than leading.
One of my stock phrases is: if you haven’t defined your purpose and values, better watch out for the enemy who has. That, I fear, is exactly what is playing out. Putin knows what he wants. Trump knows what he wants. Does Europe?
There is no point in brandishing values unless they are anchored in a clear direction. A future that inspires not just politicians but populations. Without it, those principles will remain just words. And words, as Ukraine has so awfully demonstrated, do not stop tanks.