«Cosmogenic ‘characterizes the change of approach to Europe’s Steven WaltProfessor of International Relations at the Kennedy School of Government at the University. Speaking to “Vima”, he expresses the view that the US president is not only hostile to her but also looks forward to her dismantling.
In the past there have been crises in the US -European relations – in Suez in 1956, in the Kosovo War in 1999, in the Iraq war in 2003. In many cases, the US has acted unilaterally. Why is the current crisis different?
“Because all previous US presidents firmly believed in the close allied relationship between the US and Europe, even when they disagreed with some issues. Trump sees Europe as an enemy and wants to weaken it or even destroy it. It seeks to close “One to One” agreements, with each European country separately, because it considers that in this way the US has more room to put pressure on. It seeks to interfere with European leaders who share the authoritarian, free views he himself expresses. It is a cosmogenic change in the US approach to Europe. “
Following the speech of US Vice President Jay Di Vance in Munich and the Zelenski -Trump meeting at the White House, Europeans are frightened at the idea that Europe is no longer a US ally. Are they right?
“I am very afraid that yes. The Trump government is clearly hostile to the EU and deeply cautious over NATO. What it seeks is to strengthen free forces within the EU. The US does not just want Europe to take responsibility for its safety, they want Europe to evolve into a kind of MAGA (Make America Great Again) as the one in the US. “
Trump has changed side and approaches Putin’s Russia. Is there room for improving relationships between EU and USA?
“It exists, but not with that particular president. Trump prefers a world where the Great Powers are ruled by authoritarian leaders who can do whatever they want and conclude agreements to the detriment of the weakest countries and against their own citizens. This kind of leader wants to be Trump for the US and with such foreign leaders feels comfortable. “
Under these circumstances, what could the EU do? It has been argued that the EU should convince the Trump government that it is really worth allies with Europe. What do you think?
“The EU is under pressure on two sides, Russia and the US. The greatest hope and power of the EU is to strengthen its unity and seek other US -threatened actors, as it is threatened. I am sad that I say this, as I know that close relations between the US and the EU have been particularly beneficial for both sides, for many decades. “
Some analysts argue that the EU should respond to the US president, who is constantly threatening to impose duties in the same way, imposing duties. However, duties will result in increased product costs at a time when prices are already high. What is your opinion?
“The argument you are saying is right, but it is clear that making concessions to Trump does not lead anywhere. Remember: Trump’s purpose is to weaken Europe, not just to achieve better trade relations for the US. The only way to force Trump to retreat is to make his political costs for Americans to vote for other, different politicians who will adopt reasonable approaches. “
