The End of Liberal World Order: A Reckoning for Europe
"ZEIT ONLINE: The United States made numerous announcements before and during the Munich Security Conference: Europeans should strengthen their military, assume more responsibility, and above all, engage more in Ukraine. What is your conclusion?"
Frank Sauer: The core of the announcements is different: In recent days, the United States has pulled the plug on the liberal world order. Trump’s America has abandoned our security architecture, but above all, our shared democratic values. Trump will give neither Ukraine nor us security guarantees. The only thing that will save liberal democracy in Europe is our own strength. We actually already knew that. But now it’s getting serious.
A Historic Shift
Trump’s election marks a historic shift in American foreign policy. For decades, the United States has been the guarantor of global security and the champion of democracy and human rights. But Trump has made it clear that he has no interest in upholding these commitments.
This shift has profound implications for Europe. We can no longer rely on the United States to protect us from our enemies. We must now take responsibility for our own security.
A Call to European Strength
Europe has the resources and the capacity to be a global power in its own right. We have a population of over 500 million people, a GDP of over $20 trillion, and a military budget of over $200 billion.
We must use these resources to build a stronger Europe. We must increase our military spending, develop our own defense capabilities, and work together more closely to counter our common threats.
A Test for European Values
The Trump era will be a test of European values. Will we continue to stand up for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law? Or will we sacrifice these principles in the name of security or economic expediency?
The answer to this question will determine the future of Europe and the world.
The Stakes Are High
The stakes are high. If Europe fails to rise to the challenge posed by Trump, the consequences will be dire.
We could see the collapse of the liberal world order, the rise of authoritarianism, and a return to great power conflict.
But if Europe can unite and stand up for its values, we can build a better, more democratic, and more prosperous future for ourselves and for the world.
Steps We Can Take
Here are some steps that Europe can take to strengthen itself and defend its values:
- Increase our military spending and develop our own defense capabilities.
- Work together more closely to counter our common threats.
- Stand up for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
- Promote global cooperation and multilateralism.
- Build alliances with like-minded countries around the world.
- Invest in education and innovation.
- Promote economic growth and prosperity.
The future of Europe is in our own hands. We must choose wisely.
