European leaders have concluded that the Pax Americana era has ended after US Vice President JD Vance’s speech in Munich and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s humiliating treatment at the White House. The US has become unreliable for collective security, leaving EU nations to prepare for the worst.
The Netherlands, a medium-sized country with significant European interests, is exposed due to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. Energy prices have skyrocketed, and the government is unable to act decisively. Political divisions within the coalition governing the Netherlands are hindering progress on supporting Ukraine.
To address this crisis, the EU must take a firmer stance against member states like Hungary promoting Putin’s agenda. Closer ties with non-EU countries such as the UK, Norway, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are also necessary. Financial support for Ukraine is crucial, but military aid requires careful planning.
Sanctions against Russia need to be scaled up further, and frozen assets must be transferred to Ukraine immediately. EU member states must put aside their squabbles and work together creatively to bolster defense, exploring European war bonds and investing in areas currently covered by NATO.
In the long term, establishing a collective security guarantee without relying on the US is essential. Britain and possibly Canada’s involvement are vital. A genuine energy union is also necessary to address high energy prices, requiring collective investment in energy networks, renewable energy, and joint gas procurement.
The Netherlands can lead this effort but lacks the willpower due to coalition divisions. The government must act decisively and unite behind a clear vision for EU action against Russia. With international pressure mounting, it’s time for decisive leadership from Brussels.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/mar/06/europe-donald-trump-ukraine-arms-vladimir-putin