Europe faces a complex web of challenges, from energy policy and defense strategy to safeguarding democratic principles. Recent headlines reveal ongoing debates and concerns across the continent and beyond.
Energy Transition Under Fire
The European Union's Clean Industrial Deal is facing criticism for setting unrealistic targets, particularly given the current geopolitical climate. According to Petr Jonák, the EU is effectively "liquidating industry" while much of the world continues to rely on traditional energy sources. "Three billion people heat with coal or manure," Jonák points out, highlighting the disparity between EU ambitions and global realities.
This raises questions about the feasibility and fairness of the EU's energy transition strategy, especially when war is raging outside its borders. Is the EU moving too fast, and at what cost to its own industries?
The Debate Over a Common European Army
The idea of a unified European army continues to spark debate. Fabio Selleri, writing for Il Fatto Quotidiano, argues that "the creation of a common European army, under current conditions, would raise strong concerns about the future of democracies in our continent."
Selleri fears that such an army could weaken the subordination of military hierarchies to political power, undermining democratic oversight. He also suggests that the electorate's control over the military, typically managed by the Ministry of Defense, would be diminished. Some even whisper about a return to old rivalries, referencing a 'Piedmontese' army, hinting at historical divisions.
JD Vance's Stance on Ukraine
Across the Atlantic, US Senator JD Vance is facing scrutiny for his views on Ukraine. Karolina Wigura and Jarosław Kuisz argue that Vance's "might is right" doctrine underpins his approach, dismissing the importance of defending Europe's liberal democracies from Russia. They criticize his questioning of the rationale for defending Europe's democracies, especially given the security threats faced by Eastern European countries bordering Russia. "For the countries surrounding Russia, this is not just about impertinence or failing diplomacy but about potentially being wiped off the map," they write.
Vance's actions, including voting with Russia in the UN and his statements in Munich, have raised alarm bells about the future of transatlantic relations and the US commitment to European security. The authors contend that Vance's personal history doesn't excuse his current stance, which they see as a threat to the democratic order.
These diverse issues – energy policy, defense strategy, and transatlantic relations – highlight the complex challenges facing Europe in the current global landscape. The debates surrounding these topics reflect deep divisions and uncertainties about the future.