EU Today hosted a discussion on European security and transatlantic relations featuring Reinis Poznaks, Member of the European Parliament (ECR), and Dmytro Shkurko, journalist from Ukrinform. The conference, moderated by Gary Cartwright, examined the implications of Donald Trump’s recent statements and Europe’s defence preparedness.
Reinis Poznaks, an MEP from Latvia and a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, has been vocal on security matters concerning the Baltic states and Europe’s response to Russian aggression. His political career has been marked by strong advocacy for European self-reliance in defence and increased military investment. He has also emphasised the vulnerability of Latvia and other Baltic nations, which remain on the front line of NATO’s eastern flank. Poznaks has frequently called for stronger European military cooperation, especially in response to Russian military threats.
Dmytro Shkurko, a former military officer and currently Brussels and Europe correspondent for Ukrinform, Ukraine’s national news agency, brought insights into Ukraine’s position on the evolving security landscape. His journalistic work has focused on NATO, EU-Ukraine relations, and European security policy. With firsthand experience of Ukraine’s military capabilities, he has highlighted the resilience and preparedness of Ukrainian forces in the ongoing war with Russia. He has also reported extensively on NATO summits and European defence initiatives, making him a critical voice in discussions on European security.
Europe’s Security and Strategic Autonomy
The discussion followed the Munich Security Conference and subsequent meetings in Paris. Reinis Poznaks noted, “The world will never be the same again, whatever the ending will be.” He acknowledged concerns over U.S. reliability, stating, “Europe has to step up and become stronger itself.” He emphasised that European leaders are now openly debating how to reduce reliance on the United States and take control of their own security policy.
Dmytro Shkurko added, “Europe is already awake, and the question now is how far it will go in supporting Ukraine and itself.” He pointed to the necessity for Europe to take decisive steps, increasing defence expenditures and reconsidering its reliance on U.S. assistance. Shkurko noted that recent statements from U.S. officials about limiting military aid have further accelerated this debate in Brussels and other European capitals.
Assessing Europe’s Defence Capabilities
Gary Cartwright highlighted concerns over Europe’s military resources, including Britain’s limited deployable battle groups. Poznaks responded, “Europe is not as weak as we think. We have thousands of aircraft in Europe and could close the skies in Ukraine if we wanted to.” However, he acknowledged the difficulty of replacing U.S. ammunition supplies in the short term. He further elaborated on the state of European military infrastructure, pointing out the logistical challenges of deploying forces quickly and the need for major investments in defence production.
Shkurko noted, “Ukraine now has one of the most powerful and combat-ready armed forces in Europe.” He emphasised Ukraine’s growing defence industry and its ability to sustain itself if provided with adequate resources. He argued that Europe must step up its production of weapons and munitions to maintain the current level of support for Ukraine and prepare for potential future threats.
The Question of a European Army
The feasibility of a European army was debated. Poznaks expressed scepticism, saying, “European countries are still independent, and it is very hard to imagine how to manage a unified army.” He questioned whether a centralised European command structure could be effective given the differing defence priorities of EU member states. Instead, he suggested, “alliances within NATO and the EU should be formed among countries that understand the risks.” He cited the Baltic states and Poland as examples of nations willing to take more direct military action if necessary.
Cartwright raised concerns about the EU’s unanimity requirement and the role of leaders like Viktor Orbán and Robert Fico in potential military decisions. Poznaks acknowledged, “That’s the problem. It’s not just about the army, but about decision-making in general.” He noted the difficulty of eliminating veto rights while maintaining influence for smaller member states. He warned that without structural reforms, the EU’s ability to act decisively in military matters would remain compromised.
Trump’s Perspective on International Relations
The discussion turned to Trump’s approach to international relations. Poznaks remarked, “He is looking at this as a businessman.” He suggested that Trump’s transactional view of foreign policy is undermining traditional alliances. Shkurko described it as “a cynical approach,” arguing that abandoning allies in the middle of a conflict is not a sound strategy.
On Trump’s stance toward Ukraine, Shkurko said, “It looks like the leader of a great nation is living in a world of disinformation.” He linked this to Russian narratives, adding, “These are Kremlin propaganda lines.” He further pointed out that Trump’s remarks are already being used in Russian state media to justify their position and weaken Western unity.
Ukraine’s Role and NATO’s Future
Shkurko dismissed the notion that Ukraine would accept any settlement dictated by external powers, stating, “Ukrainians will not allow Europe down.” He emphasised that regardless of any agreements between the U.S. and Russia, the Ukrainian people would continue fighting for their sovereignty.
Poznaks reinforced this, saying, “The Ukrainian people have to accept any deal, not just Zelensky.” He pointed to Ukraine’s historical resistance movements, highlighting that even if formal negotiations took place, they would not guarantee an end to the war.
On NATO’s role, Shkurko questioned, “Is NATO still an alliance of values?” He pointed to rhetoric from both Trump and Putin, arguing, “Their statements sound similar when talking about Europe.” He suggested that if NATO moves away from its founding principles, Europe may need to consider alternative defence arrangements to ensure its security.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Europe
Poznaks summarised the situation, “We must be ready, regardless of what deals are being discussed. Ukraine and Europe will stand together.” He stressed that Europe’s future security will depend on its willingness to take action independently of U.S. policy decisions.
Shkurko concluded, “The EU needs a reliable response to this new situation.” He stated that while American support remains critical, European leaders must prepare for a future where they take full responsibility for their security.
The discussion highlighted the urgency for Europe to bolster its defences and reduce reliance on the U.S. as geopolitical uncertainties continue to unfold. With ongoing threats from Russia and a shifting political landscape in Washington, the next few years will be decisive in determining Europe’s strategic direction.
Read also:
Trump’s Naïve Diplomacy Towards Russia: A Dangerous Delusion
