Judging Freedom Prof. Glenn Diesen: What Is Europe Afraid Of?
Apr 16, 2025
Glenn Diesen, a geopolitics expert from the University of Southeastern Norway, dives deep into Europe's complex fears stemming from the Ukraine war. He discusses the divided strategies within Trump's foreign policy regarding Russia and the moral dilemmas faced by European leaders. The conversation highlights NATO's expansion, the implications of current policies, and the escalating tensions with Russia. Diesen emphasizes the need for a coherent strategy while acknowledging Europe's historical context that clouds contemporary security challenges.
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Division in Trump Administration Policy
- There is a clear division within the Trump administration between neocons and America Firsters regarding Ukraine and Russia policy.
- The negotiation includes competing proposals: one recognizing Russian demands, the other rejecting territorial concessions and involving NATO troops in Ukraine.
Europe's Military Limits and New Purpose
- Europe lacks the resources and will to militarily govern parts of Ukraine like post-WWII Germany.
- Europeans seek a new geopolitical purpose, increasingly uniting around a Russian threat as the US reduces its European role.
Europe's Moral Framing of Russia
- European leaders view Russia as evil and frame peace negotiations as requiring Russia's complete capitulation.
- They unite through a moral narrative that simplifies complex conflicts into good versus evil.