'Betrayal': Trump talks to Putin & US says it is 'no longer a guarantor' of Europe's defence
Feb 13, 2025
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Svitlana Morenets, a Staff Writer at The Spectator, brings a unique Ukrainian perspective on the shifting tides of international relations. The discussion revolves around the Trump administration's withdrawal as Europe's security guarantor, raising alarm in Kyiv and Brussels. Morenets highlights the implications for NATO dynamics and the potential erosion of Western support for Ukraine's sovereignty. She also covers Estonia's innovative defense funding proposal for Ukraine and underscores the critical need for European solidarity as geopolitical landscapes evolve.
The U.S. has officially stated it will no longer act as Europe's primary security guarantor, marking a significant shift in foreign policy.
Immediate backlash from European leaders reflects deep concerns over U.S.-Russia negotiations sidelining Ukrainian interests and security.
Deep dives
US Strategic Shift on NATO and Ukraine
A significant change in U.S. foreign policy has been articulated, indicating that the United States will no longer act as the primary guarantor of security in Europe. The new administration's approach suggests that Ukrainian ambitions to return to pre-2014 borders are unrealistic, undermining previous U.S. commitments to Ukraine. Furthermore, the rejection of NATO membership for Ukraine within the current peace conversation insinuates a reduction in strong alliances that were once perceived as crucial. This shift marks a departure from the United States' historical role in European security, raising critical questions about its future involvement and support.
Reactions from Europe and Ukraine
Immediate backlash from European officials and Ukrainian leaders highlights concerns over the recent diplomatic developments, particularly the direct negotiations between the U.S. and Russia. European nations fear being sidelined in critical discussions affecting Ukraine's sovereignty and security. Ukraine’s President Zelensky has firmly stated that any deal reached by the U.S. without Ukrainian input would be unacceptable. The situation reflects a growing anxiety among European powers about their capacity to guarantee security in the face of a possibly resurgent Russian influence.
Implications of Trump’s Approach
Trump’s call for negotiations with Putin has raised alarms concerning appeasement, especially given the concessions made to Russia without reciprocal demands. Analysts express that this undermines the principle of mutual respect and security guarantees essential for a negotiated settlement. Furthermore, the absence of U.S. troops under NATO's Article 5 in future peacekeeping missions is perceived as a potential weakening of European defense guarantees. The consensus is forming that the current U.S. stance could embolden Russia to pursue aggressive policies without facing significant feasibility.
Future of European Defense and Unity
There is a palpable urgency for European nations to reassess their defense strategies and establish a unified front in support of Ukraine. Historical comparisons emerged, warning that past mistakes of underestimating Russian ambitions could be repeated. European countries must now confront the reality of maintaining their defense autonomously should U.S. support wane. It is crucial for European leaders to formulate robust security guarantees for Ukraine and rally political support to ensure the country remains resilient amidst shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Today, we discuss what many are calling a “turning point” in the war and in Western foreign policy, as the Trump administration declares definitively the US will no longer be a primary guarantor of Europe's security, and seeks a deal with Russia over the heads of Kyiv and its allies. We hear the reaction from Brussels and Ukraine, and consider the options for those Western nations that remain committed to Ukrainian independence.
Contributors:
Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent). @Barnes_Joe on X.
With thanks to Svitlana Morenets (Staff Writer at the Spectator). @SvMorenets on X.