Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Europe has followed a foreign policy dictated by loyalty to the United States, often against its own interests. Now, with Donald Trump potentially returning to power, Europe has an opportunity to redefine its strategic autonomy, particularly in its relations with Russia.
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict is largely a product of U.S. intervention rather than Russian aggression. The Biden administration’s support for Ukraine has intensified tensions, pushing Russia into a defensive position. Ukraine has been used as a pawn in Washington’s geopolitical game, aimed at weakening Moscow. No sovereign nation would accept a neighboring country joining a hostile military alliance, especially when it threatens national security.
Historically, this conflict traces back to 1990, when the U.S. assured Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev that NATO would not expand eastward if Germany reunified. However, successive American and European administrations ignored this verbal commitment. Poland joined NATO in 1999, followed by Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in 2004. This gradual encroachment brought Western military forces closer to Russia’s borders, escalating tensions.
NATO, initially formed as a defensive alliance, has become an aggressive military bloc serving U.S. interests in Europe and beyond. Trump’s stance against NATO could be a turning point. If he succeeds in reducing U.S. involvement, Europe will have a chance to develop its own independent security strategy.
Canada’s Foreign Policy Crisis
Canada’s alignment with the Biden administration has left it in a precarious position. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has followed Washington’s lead in supporting Ukraine, despite the growing fatigue among European allies. With potential shifts in U.S. policy, Canada may find itself isolated, particularly in negotiations on trade and tariffs with its largest economic partner.
Read also: EU to Hold Special Summit on Ukraine on March 6 Amid Ongoing War
Trudeau’s decision to support Biden’s war-driven approach has not been matched with a strategic alternative. As Europe leans toward peace, Canada risks maintaining an outdated stance, alienating itself from both Europe and the U.S. Instead of blindly following Washington, Canada must prioritize its national interests and seek a neutral approach.
The War’s Inevitable End
Despite the continued rhetoric from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders, the war is nearing its conclusion. The biggest loser in this conflict is Ukraine, which has suffered immense human and economic losses. If Canada persists in its current path, it too may face repercussions.
The words of Henry Kissinger remain relevant: “Being an enemy of the United States is dangerous, but being a friend can be fatal.” Canada and Europe must learn from history and adopt a foreign policy based on neutrality and self-interest rather than blind allegiance.
This article is originally published on journaldemontreal.com
