The Rest Is Politics 473. Europe vs. Trump: Competing Visions for a Ukraine Peace Deal (Question Time)
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Nov 26, 2025 The hosts dive into the implications of the US skipping the G20 and COP, questioning the role of middle powers in global leadership. They contrast US and European responses to Russia's involvement in Ukraine, highlighting the differences in military and financial commitment. The looming economic collapse of the West Bank is discussed, exposing the harsh realities of Israeli financial controls. They also touch on a corruption case involving a pro-Russian politician and debate the impact of addiction awareness efforts in society.
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Divergent Western Visions On Ukraine
- Europe and the US now present two competing worldviews on Ukraine, not minor differences over tactics.
- Rory Stewart warns Trump's stance aligns with Putin, making previous European deference strategically costly.
Prepare Europe For A US Pullback
- Prepare for a US withdrawal by building independent European defence and financing for Ukraine now.
- Don't wait for the US to stay; scale up European support and readiness immediately.
US Retreat Weakens Multilateralism
- The post‑1945 multilateral order depended on sustained US leadership and can fray when Washington withdraws.
- Rory Stewart argues Trump's absence from forums like G20 and COP undermines multilateralism.
