Europe’s foreign policy has been a major point of debate in global affairs, with growing concerns over its alignment with U.S. strategic interests. Economist and policy analyst Jeffrey Sachs, a former advisor to multiple U.N. Secretary-Generals and a professor at Columbia University, addressed the European Parliament, criticizing Europe’s reliance on Washington’s leadership. His speech reignited discussion on whether Europe should pursue a more independent international strategy.

A key focus of Sachs’ speech was NATO’s eastward expansion and its effect on Europe’s foreign policy. He claimed this was a long-term U.S. strategy to contain Russia. While many European nations supported NATO membership for their own security, Sachs argued that Washington used the alliance’s growth as a geopolitical tool, disregarding Russian security concerns. This, he said, contributed to rising tensions and played a role in the Ukraine conflict.

Beyond Europe, Sachs also pointed to the Middle East, arguing that U.S. military actions have often aligned with Israeli interests. He claimed the 2003 Iraq War was not only a U.S.-led intervention but was also influenced by Israeli policymakers and their allies in Washington. Looking ahead, he warned that U.S. support for Israel could lead to a new military conflict, possibly against Iran.

 

 

European officials have given mixed responses to these claims. Some lawmakers and analysts have voiced support for reassessing Europe’s foreign policy, while others remain committed to maintaining close ties with the U.S. There has been growing discussion about reducing reliance on NATO and developing a separate European defense strategy, though internal divisions make such a shift uncertain.

Sachs also warned of economic consequences tied to Europe’s foreign policy choices. He highlighted how severing economic ties with Russia, particularly in the energy sector, has negatively impacted industries in countries like Germany. He argued that rather than acting solely in America’s strategic interests, Europe should prioritize economic stability and diplomacy.

Looking ahead, Sachs predicted that the war in Ukraine is likely to end if Donald Trump returns to the U.S. presidency. He claimed that Europe’s foreign policy decisions will play a decisive role in determining the outcome and could redefine its relationship with the U.S. Trump, he suggested, would view the conflict as a losing situation and would negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin to bring it to a close. However, Sachs cautioned that Europe must decide whether to maintain its current course or develop a foreign policy that prioritizes regional stability over allegiance to Washington.

As global power dynamics shift, Europe’s foreign policy will determine whether the region continues following U.S. leadership or takes a more autonomous approach. The decisions made now could shape the future of European diplomacy and international relations for years to come.

 

 

Watch the Full Speech: Below is the full video of Jeffrey Sachs’ speech at the European Parliament, where he discusses NATO expansion, U.S. foreign policy, and Europe’s geopolitical challenges in greater detail.

 

 

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