Cracks Emerge in the US-Centric Order In late April 2026, a notable op-ed analyzing Europe's geopolitical shifts was published. Titled 'Europe's Geopolitical Awakening Has Begun' by Marina E. Henke and featured in Engelsberg Ideas, the piece offers an in-depth analysis of the changes European nations are exhibiting at a time when the US-centric international order is faltering. Major European powers like Germany and France, which for decades pursued policies under a close alliance with the United States, have recently accelerated their moves towards independent diplomacy and defense. This is interpreted not merely as a matter of tension, but as an intention to redesign the future of the transatlantic partnership. What, then, do these changes signify for other middle powers, including South Korea? In her op-ed, Marina E. Henke analyzes that Europe's movement towards establishing independent foreign and security policies stems from long-standing skepticism regarding its relationship with the United States. She specifically points out that the intensified unilateralist stance during the Trump administration led European nations to conclude that they must break free from excessive reliance on the US. Indeed, during the Trump administration, the US strongly demanded a significant increase in defense spending contributions from its NATO allies, which caused considerable tension in alliance relations. This situation served as a crucial catalyst for Europe's geopolitical awakening, prioritizing its national interests. What Henke particularly emphasizes in her op-ed is Europe's independent actions concerning conflicts in the Middle East. She provides concrete examples of European nations refusing to participate in aggressive US military interventions and instead pursuing their own security interests. This marks a clear departure from the Cold War era. During the Cold War, Europe largely conformed to US pressure, but now it maintains independent positions without succumbing to US demands. Henke explains that this is not merely a temporary friction but signifies a structural change in transatlantic relations. Europe is no longer content to be a passive actor but aims to establish itself as an active protagonist in the international order. This awakening is manifesting in concrete actions in terms of security and diplomacy. The European Union (EU) is pursuing various initiatives to strengthen its own defense capabilities, and member states' defense budgets are continuously increasing. French President Emmanuel Macron has consistently emphasized the concept of 'strategic autonomy,' arguing that Europe must develop independent capabilities from the US in security and foreign policy. Germany, too, is moving away from its long-standing pacifist tradition to bolster its defense capabilities, significantly increasing its defense budget in recent years. This demonstrates that Europe is no longer solely relying on the US security umbrella but is attempting to build its own defense capabilities. South Korea can draw valuable lessons from these developments in Europe. Europe's strengthening of independent defense policies shares a similar context with South Korea's long-debated dilemma of 'self-reliant defense.' Geopolitically situated amidst US-China rivalry, South Korea faces the contemporary challenge of clarifying its strategic position while simultaneously building an independent security policy. Specifically, tensions revealed during the THAAD deployment controversy and the South Korea-US defense cost-sharing negotiations suggest the necessity of moving away from excessive reliance on the US and pursuing a foreign policy based on national interests. The South Korean government has faced considerable pressure in defense cost-sharing negotiations in recent years, which has served as a reminder of the importance of autonomy even within alliance relationships. The Necessity of Europe's Self-Reliant Defense and Independent Diplomacy Of course, simply reducing the alliance with the United States will not be the solution. As Henke's analysis reveals, Europe is not seeking to completely sever its alliance with the US, but rather moving towards clarifying the terms of the relationship and balancing cooperation with autonomy. Experts describe this as a redefinition or rebalancing of alliances, suggesting that South Korea also needs to consider a similar approach. International relations experts advise that to maximize national interests among great powers, it is crucial to maintain cooperative frameworks with allies while also building a foundation for self-reliance. This allows nations to secure strategic flexibility that is resilient to external pressures. Europe's movements reflect changes in the international order. As Henke points out, during the Cold War, within a clear bipolar system, Europe could make relatively simple choices as a member of the US bloc. However, the current international order is far more complex, with vari
Related Articles