Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi gestures during the event “Two Peoples, Two States, One Destiny,” a public debate aimed at addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, held in Milan on June 6, 2025.
Stefano Rellandini | Afp | Getty Images
The European Union faces a stark reality. As tensions mount with the United States under President Donald Trump, it is crucial for Europe to assert itself on the global stage. Renzi’s assertion that the EU must step up reflects a misguided dependency on U.S. intervention, which diminishes European nations’ responsibility to act independently.
Trump’s statements regarding the EU’s ineffectiveness in mediating Middle Eastern conflicts underscore a broader concern—Europe’s lack of agency. The ongoing strife between Iran and Israel highlights not just a geopolitical crisis, but Europe’s failure to define its role in establishing peace.
As Renzi points out, the relationship with the U.S. appears fraught with daily criticisms and a lack of strategic cooperation. It is imperative that European leaders recognize their collective responsibility rather than wait for American approval or intervention.
Furthermore, the absence of a tariff agreement between the U.S. and the EU is a tangible example of how the relationship is deteriorating. The repeated imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration is not merely a political maneuver; it reflects a pressing need for Europe to re-evaluate its trade practices and liberate itself from the whims of American policy.
The transatlantic alliance is under strain, with defense and foreign policy being areas of contention. European leaders must confront the unsettling reality that Trump may reduce military presence in Europe, which would leave the continent vulnerable.
Renzi advocates for a necessary awakening among European nations. Instead of relying solely on one ally, Europe must embrace personal responsibility and assume a leadership role in addressing its defense matters. This perspective resonates with others on the continent.
Enrico Letta, another former Italian prime minister, highlights the long-term implications of Trump’s actions, which aim to undermine multilateralism and challenge Europe’s autonomy. Letta’s call for enhanced European independence is a reminder that European nations must prioritize their own interests over external influences.
The calls from German and French leaders reinforce the urgent need for increased defense spending. In an increasingly unstable world, Europe cannot afford to be complacent. The notion that allies may shift their priorities necessitates that Europe fortify its own capabilities to navigate future challenges effectively.
In summary, Europe must reclaim its agency. The time has come for European nations to embrace personal responsibility, uphold traditional values, and adopt sound free-market principles. Only through self-reliance can Europe foster a future that aligns with the interests of its citizens.
