European Union

The new Trump administration’s recent political offensive targeted at the European Union, as well as its fairly ambiguous approach towards the question of the Russo-Ukrainian war, have led Brussels to initiate a desperate search for EU-based solutions within the sphere of security and defense. Decision-making processes stretching over the past few months have undergone a sudden acceleration.

At the outset of 2024, many economic projections assumed the war in Ukraine would conclude within the year. However, reality defied expectations. The war persisted, bringing new challenges, including territorial losses, large-scale infrastructure destruction, and sustained Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid. The Government faced the pressing need to secure funding for the war effort and mobilize additional defense forces.

The concept of a digital euro is rapidly moving from theory to reality, yet its fundamental purpose remains ambiguous. Proponents argue that it could enhance financial security, expand access to banking services, and bolster geopolitical independence. However, the sheer variety of justifications raises a critical question: is any single argument compelling enough to warrant its creation?

While the EU-MERCOSUR agreement is nearing its final stages, some remain opposed, risking a deadlock in the EU’s approval process. The EU must ensure smooth ratification to strengthen its strategic autonomy in these uncertain times. After 25 years of complex negotiations, the European Union and MERCOSUR have finally reached a landmark trade agreement.

Trump has shocked Europe with his bold and unrelenting desire to seize Greenland as a US territory. Still, it should come as an even greater shock how little Europe had paid attention to this crucial landmass in the stage of newly emerging global conflicts. The Arctic has not weighed heavily in international relationships. However, with the ice melting, new trade routes are opening, and rich resources are becoming more easily accessible.

Poland will mark twenty years as a member of the European Union in 2024. In recent years, eurosceptic sentiments undermining the benefits of European integration have gained ground in Poland and Europe. However, the facts contradict these claims: membership in the European Union benefits member states. This is also true for Poland, which will continue to benefit from remaining in the Community, even if it eventually becomes a net contributor.

What do we need in a year of uncertainty? Determination, optimism, and faith that through consistent and resolute action, we can overcome the challenges the world faces today. Unfortunately, history may repeat itself, but that does not mean we are helpless. After decades of relative geopolitical stability, years of peace, a time of spectacular economic development, and poverty reduction, the world finds itself at a crossroads.

How can the European Union woo Donald Trump? Why immigration is beneficial and morally right? And what is the EU\'s potential for change and reform? Leszek Jazdzewski (Fundacja Liberte!) talks with Philippe Legrain, a former economic adviser to the president of the European Commission, a Visiting Senior Fellow at the London School of Economics’ European Institute.

Several days after the US election, it is time to focus on the possible and probable consequences. The Trump victory would present two main challenges for the EU. First, Trump and the Republican Party’s protectionist tendencies could result in a more aggressive trade policy toward Europe. Second, the Trump administration may show little interest in maintaining US support for Ukraine or playing a major role in European defense generally.

The Czech Republic celebrated a major anniversary on May 1 this year. Exactly twenty years ago on this day, the Czech Republic joined the European Union, and thus became part of the Single European Market. Apart from the political implications, joining the EU had major economic consequences. These are the ones we are going to look at now.