Europe is dealing with Trump all wrong, according to his former national security adviser
Feb 20, 2025
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John Bolton, former U.S. National Security Advisor, shares insights on Trump's negotiations with Putin regarding Ukraine. He highlights growing concerns among European allies about NATO's future. Sanna Marin, Finland's former Prime Minister, discusses the necessity of a unified European response to maintain security and challenge rising authoritarianism. They analyze the implications of America's shifting foreign policy and stress the importance of enhancing European defense capabilities in light of current geopolitical threats.
Trump's direct negotiations with Russia have heightened European fears of being sidelined, jeopardizing NATO's future and security dynamics.
European leaders must bolster defense spending and capabilities to counter rising threats from Russia in light of potential US withdrawal.
Deep dives
Concerns Over US and NATO Relations
The recent actions of President Trump regarding negotiations with Russia have raised significant concerns among European allies about the future of NATO and the Transatlantic relationship. Trump's direct discussions with Vladimir Putin suggest a potential shift away from the long-held US position of fully supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and its NATO aspirations. This perceived willingness to negotiate a ceasefire without adequate guarantees for Ukraine has left European nations feeling sidelined and anxious about their security commitments. The emphasis is now on whether the US can effectively balance its interests with those of NATO allies, who are concerned about their security in the face of an assertive Russia.
The Debate Over Peacekeeping Forces
The discussion surrounding the deployment of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine highlights the complexities and potential repercussions of such a move. Critics, including former National Security Advisor John Bolton, warn that introducing a peacekeeping force could lead to a frozen conflict, effectively partitioning Ukraine and legitimizing Russia's territorial gains. The lack of clarity regarding the role and rules of engagement for peacekeepers raises critical questions about their effectiveness and the implications for regional stability. As various European nations consider their options, the dangers of relying on peacekeeping measures without a solid strategy are becoming increasingly evident.
Europe's Need for Increased Defense Spending
There is a pressing need for European leaders to enhance their defense spending and capabilities amid fears that the US might be withdrawing its commitment to NATO. The ongoing situation has underscored Europe's historical reliance on American military support, prompting calls for a greater independent defense strength. Former Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Maren suggested that Europe must not only increase military investments but also focus on technological advancements to address new threats. Without a robust and proactive stance, the risk of further Russian aggression in Europe remains a significant concern for the continent's stability and security.
President Donald Trump’s quick-fire approach to ending Russia’s war against Ukraine has left European allies worried they are being sidelined by the United States administration, as Washington and Moscow conduct direct negotiations.
It has also caused a crisis in European capitals about the future of NATO, created in the wake of World War II to uphold security in Europe and protect it from a Russian threat. Now, it’s America that looks as if it's turning its back on NATO and Europe — in search of a grand bargain with Moscow.
Host Anne McElvoy talks with John Bolton, former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations who also served as national security adviser under Trump, and Sanna Marin, Finland’s prime minister from 2019 to 2023, who led the country to its NATO accession.