European Defence Projects of Common Interest could strengthen Europe’s defence capabilities, but obstacles remain. Success will depend on overcoming fragmented priorities, securing adequate funding and fostering focused cooperation to deliver interoperable capabilities.

The new EU Enlargement Package signals a decisive phase for enlargement. While enlargement partners face differing challenges, the EU’s ability to ensure that reform progress is rewarded, build political consensus and prepare for new members will be crucial.

The Democrats' midterm victory will likely constrain Trump domestically, but could make US foreign policy more unpredictable. Between now and 2028, Europe will need to engage simultaneously with the new Congress, the administration and the broader US public.

Europe is gearing up for a test of strength with China, a country that presents itself to the outside world full of self-confidence. But Europe holds better cards than it thinks, so there is every reason for an assertive China policy.