On a single trip to Israel to meet her friend, Prime Minister Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu, EU President von der Leyen has severely damaged the EU’s reputation as a supporter of human rights and international law.
The EU’s failure to take action to protect Palestinians from ongoing Israeli bombing and ground campaigns has led to the perception that the EU has become a biased and compromised institution. Its unwavering support for Israel has resulted in several Arab nations severing their friendly ties with the EU.
EU member states are increasing military spending due to concerns about nearby conflict. The EU sought assistance from the United States to bolster its defense. While committed to boosting arms manufacturing, member states will continue to rely on the U.S., leaving them vulnerable to its influence.
It is becoming clear that the future of the EU will be influenced to some extent by the U.S. Congress and the legislation it enacts. Many of Europe’s foreign policy decisions depend on the White House, which is currently preoccupied with its domestic political struggle. The outcome of the upcoming U.S. presidential elections will shape the future of Europe and its relationship with its long-standing ally.
The incoming EU leaders for 2024-2029 will face the challenge of addressing the damage caused by Ursula von der Leyen’s biased leadership amidst global conflicts and geopolitical power struggles. Over the next four years, this includes resolving issues and incoherence among EU member states and securing the EU borders against potential external threats.
It remains to be seen whether the EU will see a new and more substantial bloc emerging from the ruins of corrupt leadership. Regardless, members are facing serious concerns over the future of the European Union as it enters its next five-year period.
