Analytics
Atlantisch Perspectief
A
In search of a European Russia strategy
A global multilateral rules-based order,
supported by a pro-active and interventionist United States, is gradually being replaced by a more
fragmented world, in which geopolitics and geo-economics are becoming the dominant factors and
universal rules, norms, and values are increasingly questioned. For the EU such developments are
particularly challenging, as it has long perceived itself as a post-Westphalian soft power, mainly
projecting its norms and values in its relations with both its direct neighbors and the world at
large. A more isolationist US, a more assertive Russia, and the growing global influence of China
have raised questions about the EU's place and role in the world, which become even more pertinent
after Brexit. Therefore, Commission President Von der Leyen intends to lead a "geopolitical
Commission" and we are hearing calls for European strategic autonomy or even strategic
sovereignty.
March 2020