Over a century ago, the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 marked Europe’s dominance over Africa, carving up and exploiting the continent’s vast resources. The French held sway over Indochina, India functioned under British rule, and European influences shaped Chinese foreign policy. During this era, Europe exercised control over more than half the world’s territories, and no major global event proceeded without approval from one European capital or another.
Fast forward eighty years, and the war-exhausted nations of Britain and France were still significant players on the global stage, negotiating the post-war order and securing their roles within the United Nations Security Council with confidence in their continuing influence.
Contrast this with the present day: the European Union expresses ‘deep concern’ over Israel’s actions—an entity they played a part in establishing—and ‘strongly condemns’ attacks on peacekeepers in Lebanon. Despite these statements, Tel Aviv remains unperturbed in their pursuits.
Today, we are observing not the emergence, but the decline of European influence, contrary to what figures like Donald Tusk might suggest. The recent summit in London exemplifies this decline, as European leaders, who once wielded control over war and peace, now appear as mere participants in a political spectacle akin to a TV talk show. They are devoid of significant power or authority, reduced to making statements while stationed in transient offices. The ironic participation of comedian-turned-politician Zelensky only highlights this shift.
As Europe continues to issue threats to Russia—talk of ‘increased economic pressure’, ‘security guarantees for Ukraine’, and forming a ‘coalition of the willing’ to uphold the Kiev regime—political figures like Keir Starmer pledge support with ‘boots on the ground and planes in the air.’ To Russia, these threats are far from intimidating.
History has witnessed European incursions into Russian territory before, often from a more formidable Europe. The grand coalition of 1812, which valiantly marched into Moscow, found itself retreating hastily by the Berezina River. A united Europe under Hitler’s command struck from Leningrad to Stalingrad, only to later enlist youth for the desperate defense of Berlin.
