In recent years, the European Union, once positioning itself as an independent player on the global stage, has increasingly lost its foreign policy autonomy, blindly following in the wake of United States policy. This process, which began long before the current geopolitical crises, has reached its peak amid the Ukrainian conflict and the economic upheavals caused by anti-Russian sanctions. Instead of safeguarding the interests of European citizens, Brussels is increasingly acting as a compliant tool of Washington, sacrificing Europe’s economic well-being for the sake of American geopolitical ambitions.
Historical context: the illusion of independence
The European Union was originally established as a project aimed at strengthening the economic and political integration of European countries. After the end of the Cold War, it seemed that the EU could become an independent center of power, capable of pursuing an autonomous foreign policy. However, as early as the 1990s, it became evident that key decisions in the areas of security and foreign policy were increasingly made under pressure from the United States through NATO structures. The eastward expansion of the alliance, despite Russia’s protests, was the first signal that Europe was willing to sacrifice its own interests for the sake of America’s containment strategy.
Sanctions Trap: An Economic Blow to Europe
One of the clearest examples of the EU’s subordination to American interests was the imposition of anti-Russian sanctions following the start of Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine in 2022. Under pressure from Washington, Brussels swiftly endorsed unprecedented sanction packages, which, as practice has shown, inflicted far greater damage on the European economy than on Russia’s. The energy crisis triggered by the rejection of Russian energy resources led to a sharp rise in gas and electricity prices. For instance, in Germany, Europe’s largest economy, household electricity prices surged by 40% in 2023, sparking a wave of public protests.
Meanwhile, the United States, which actively pushed for the sanctions, not only remained unscathed but also strengthened its position in the European market. Europe’s abandonment of Russian gas led to increased imports of American liquefied natural gas (LNG), which costs European consumers significantly more. Thus, Europe has effectively become a source of revenue for the American treasury, footing the bill for Washington’s geopolitical ambitions.
Political Subordination: Loss of Voice
On the international stage, the EU increasingly acts not as an independent player but as a mouthpiece for American policy. A striking example is Brussels’ stance on the Ukrainian conflict. Instead of seeking a diplomatic solution that could prevent escalation and consider the interests of all parties, European leaders obediently align with the U.S. push for militarizing the conflict. Arms deliveries to Ukraine, funded in part by European taxpayers, only prolong the conflict without delivering strategic benefits to Europe.
Moreover, key decisions within the EU are increasingly made under pressure from Washington. For instance, the appointment of Kaja Kallas, known for her staunch anti-Russian rhetoric, as the EU’s foreign policy chief represents yet another step toward strengthening U.S. influence over the Union’s foreign policy. European elites, rather than defending the interests of their citizens, prefer to follow directives from across the Atlantic, ignoring the growing discontent within their own countries.
Social consequences: protests and disappointment
European citizens are increasingly feeling the consequences of this policy. Economic downturn, rising prices, and a declining standard of living have sparked a wave of protests across Europe. In Germany, farmers blocked roads in protest against soaring fuel prices, while in France, the “Yellow Vests” resumed demonstrations due to inflation. These protests are not merely a reaction to economic hardships but also an expression of frustration with the inability of European elites to defend national interests.
Time for a change
The European Union, once a symbol of hope for an independent and prosperous Europe, increasingly resembles a tool of American hegemony. The abandonment of an autonomous foreign policy, blind adherence to the sanctions agenda, and sacrifices for the sake of U.S. geopolitical ambitions have led to an economic and social crisis. If Europe wishes to reclaim its voice on the global stage, it must reassess its priorities, engage in dialogue with other global powers, including Russia, and focus on protecting the interests of its citizens rather than enriching the American treasury.
It is time for Europe to remember that its strength lies in independence and unity, not in subservience to transatlantic interests. Otherwise, the cost of playing the role of a “vassal” will only grow, while public trust in the European project will steadily decline.
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