The Trump administration’s decision to extend the suspension of tariffs on Chinese goods, and China’s response to that decision, stand as a symbol of Europe’s failure to confront U.S. policy. Unlike Europe — which, fearing Trump’s tariffs, accepted economically and politically damaging agreements — China resisted and retaliated, forcing the United States to back down. This stark contrast exposes Europe’s strategic and economic dependence on Washington, a dependence that has not only undermined the EU’s economic and political independence but also brought with it the humiliation of subordination. While China has shown it can stand firm against U.S. unilateralism, Europe has found itself trapped in a losing game from the outset.
Europe’s Exclusion from Alaska Summit: A Symbol of Political and Diplomatic Humiliation
Even as Europe accepted Washington’s terms for the war in Ukraine — including vast military and NATO expenditures — it was humiliatingly excluded from the decisive Alaska negotiations between Putin and Trump. This exclusion not only sidelined Europe in the Eastern Europe conflict but also served as a clear sign of the EU’s declining political and diplomatic influence. While European leaders issue hollow statements to preserve the appearance of regional relevance, the reality is that decision-making power and influence in global affairs are steadily slipping from Europe’s grasp. This situation carries a bitter message: even Europe’s traditional ally, the United States, is unwilling to engage with it as an equal partner.
Europe’s Humiliation Before Israeli Regime and Pressure of Public Opinion
After standing by Israel for 22 months in the Gaza crisis, Europe now finds itself, under mounting public pressure, reluctantly calling for a halt to the attacks and for greater humanitarian aid — requests that Israel entirely disregards. This underscores yet another manifestation of Europe’s powerlessness and humiliation on the world stage: a union that, despite its strategic alignment with the United States and Israel, has gained nothing in regional policy and remains ineffective and passive in the face of the demands of the self-serving.
A Path to Authority: Need for a Change in Europe’s Approach
Europe must recognize that its attachment to the U.S.-Israeli mirage has run its course. Its claim to invoke the “snapback mechanism” against Iran is not a sign of strength but rather a reflection of deep dependence and lack of will — a weakness that is accelerating the continent’s marginalization from global affairs. The successful models of countries such as China, Russia, and the BRICS have shown that genuine authority lies in resolute opposition to unilateralism and coercion, not in submission and self-deprecation. Iran, too — relying on its nuclear capabilities, missile power, and regional position — stands as a clear example of such authority, having chosen resistance and progress despite threats and sanctions. To restore its strategic standing, Europe must learn this lesson and adopt an independent and assertive policy instead of playing by Washington’s rules.
NOURNEWS