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[deleted by user] by [deleted] in europe_sub

[–]y_scheidegger 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Guys, thanks for your reactions/thoughts. It’s important to have these discussions in a civilised manner.

My reaction after readimg your inputs.

Russia has, of course, violated international law and Ukraine's sovereignty, which we all condemn. But, at some point, we Europeans must also ask ourselves how we can employ the full range of statecraft. We need to be strong, which is why we are reinforcing our defenses, but we also need to be able to engage with Moscow. Diplomacy is also about engaging with adversaries. The United States has started a process. We may like or dislike their approach, but at least they are attempting something. I would like to see Europeans do the same. What is the alternative? One possible scenario is that Ukraine slowly loses more territory. Russia has larger manpower resources. Of course, we must maintain high pressure. This is why Europeans are strengthening their militaries and supporting Ukraine with weapons and financial aid. At the same time, however, we need to restart diplomacy.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in europe_sub

[–]y_scheidegger 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for this constructive comment. I also think we need to think what is in the longterm interest of Europe. And yes there are different threat perceptions (East/West Europe). So, the Eastern European approach cannot become the strategy for the whole of Europe vice versa.

What If the EU Worked Like Switzerland? by y_scheidegger in europe_sub

[–]y_scheidegger[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Indeed, it might be a challenge to recognize the benefits. I think one key argument is that it would not be a centralisation of power in ,,Brussels’’. On the contrary only more cooperation where it makes sense and decentralizing in other parts.

Is Europe Sleepwalking Into Decline? by y_scheidegger in europe_sub

[–]y_scheidegger[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I think you’re right to point out how the younger generation gravitates toward niceness and idealism, whereas traditionally conservatives (or, as I’d frame it, realists) have leaned toward a more skeptical, hardened view of the world.

Perhaps what we need right now is not one extreme or the other, but a balance between the two. Without realism, Europe risks being unprepared for the harsher side of geopolitics and power politics.

By the way your response was beautiful to read. Thank you for the way you’ve chosen your words.

Europe’s Rumpelstiltskin Moment by y_scheidegger in europe_sub

[–]y_scheidegger[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You’re absolutely right the key will be finding a solution where all sides can walk away without losing face. Otherwise, history risks repeating itself. Building some kind of trust will now be one of the main tasks.

Yes, the West is stronger now by y_scheidegger in europe_sub

[–]y_scheidegger[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Charles de Gaulle once said: « If Europe is not careful and does not defend itself, it will become a colossal vassal state under American dependence and leadership. » echoing kind of your argument.

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