Commentary

Europe faces a challenging energy outlook as winter approaches, with tight markets and Russian hybrid attacks exposing its vulnerabilities. The EU must combine targeted energy relief with swifter electrification and stronger protection of critical infrastructure.

The momentum is there for Europe and Canada to take their partnership to a new level. A political agreement shaping the vision for 'associate membership' status, together with stronger sectoral cooperation, could enable them to do just that.

Russia's shadow fleet is changing in response to mounting European pressure. The EU must respond by widening its legal options, expanding efforts to target those involved in illicit activities, and more actively pursuing the seizure of vessels and cargoes.

By operating across competing groupings, India may be well placed to preserve dialogue and sustain a level of continuity across otherwise distinct policy agendas. This has implications for how Europe approaches its cooperation with New Delhi.

Europe should urgently strengthen Ukraine’s air defences as Russia intensifies its long-range strikes. Increasing supplies, expanding European and Ukrainian production, and developing new capabilities would help counter ballistic missiles and strengthen Europe’s own defences.

Following NATO's summit in Ankara, Europe must move beyond capability development. It is time to assume leadership for defence planning, rehearse for fighting with less US support, and ensure coherence between the various political frameworks.

Europe does not need new trade defence measures to respond to China's export surge. It needs to use its existing powers more decisively to deter coercion, strengthen its negotiating position and restore competitiveness.

As China exerts growing economic and strategic pressure on Europe, the EU continues to delay difficult decisions. How can Europe defend its interests against a power that increasingly uses trade, technology and economic interdependence for political purposes?

The NATO summit in Ankara in early July threatens to revolve around one question once again: how do we keep Donald Trump on board? Europe would be much better off focusing on its own plan for military deterrence.

The EU-Western Balkans Summit highlighted renewed momentum for enlargement. Yet ongoing political crises, governance shortcomings and regional tensions show that successful integration will depend as much on domestic reforms and stability as on geopolitical ambition.