By Joseph Lister Nyaringo
The response by Europe to Russia's invasion of Ukraine has brought to fore a critical question about the region’s ability to take decisive action on global crises. Despite being a significant economic and military power, Europe seems hesitant to take the lead in tackling Russia.
It appears that Europe is waiting for the United States to take charge,
which raises this question: Is Europe a paper tiger, lacking the courage,
requisite power, and conviction to stand up to aggressors?
Historically, European powers, particularly Britain, have played a
significant role in shaping global politics. Britain's colonial empire, which
once spanned across a quarter of the world's land area, was a testament to its
military and economic prowess. However, Europe's influence has waned, and it
seems to be ceding ground to other global powers. The Ukraine crisis has
exposed Europe's inability to act decisively, and its reliance on the US for
leadership and direction is worrying.
Understandably, Europe's hesitation in taking a firm and decisive step
against Russia is due to its energy dependence, and this fear of Putin's
aggression may be well understandable, but it should not paralyze the region
into inaction.
Europe cannot afford to leave the game to the US alone, especially now
that the new administration in Washington led by Donald Trump is warming up to
the Kremlin, if the recent spat in the Oval Office with the Ukrainian
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is something to go by.
By taking the lead, Europe can demonstrate its commitment to upholding
international law, protecting human rights, and promoting peace and stability
not only in the region but to other regions of the world.
Vladimir Putin's aggressive expansion into Ukraine is a stark reminder of
the Kremlin's suppressive and undemocratic tendencies and this must be stopped.
He has shown gross impunity, blatant disregard for international law and
disregard for human rights. The world watches in horror as Putin attempts to
recreate a Russian empire, fueled by a desire to restore his country's former
glory.
The Russian leader believes that the collapse of the Soviet Union was a
catastrophe and seeks to reclaim it. By annexing Crimea and attempting to take
Ukraine, he aims to reassert Russia's authority over its perceived sphere of
influence. His ultimate goal is to create a multipolar world, where Russia is
one of the dominant powers, challenging the current Western-dominated world
order.
If undeterred, Putin's aggression will not stop in Ukraine. His
imperialistic appetite is likely to put several countries at risk, including
Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Poland, Moldova, Georgia,
Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Central Asia. If the Russian strongman gains victory,
it will escalate his confrontation with other western powers to destabilize the
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
Historians will contend with the fact that Britain's colonial legacy is a
profound one. The British Empire colonized nearly a quarter of the world,
thereby leaving an indelible mark globally. One would expect this European power
to apply the same energy and precision to tackle the Russian-Ukrainian crisis
with gusto and commitment through diplomacy alongside other European powers
like Germany, Italy, France, and Portugal, to mention but a few.
The US in fact, was a British colony until it declared independence in
1776. Therefore, given Britain's historical influence and reach, the country
must stop being lackadaisical by over-dependent on her former colony, the US,
to resolve global conflicts. It must be remembered that Britain’s role in
handling the Ukrainian and Russian crisis has been somewhat limited compared to
other European powers like Germany and France. Nevertheless, Britain’s
historical influence and diplomatic expertise make it an important player in
the quest for international peace and security.
The international community led by the global West must take decisive
action to deter Putin's imperial ambitions through a unified response. It will
require strict economic sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and military aid to
Ukraine. Anything less than this will mean a decisive win for Putin to take
over Ukraine and proceed with more imperialistic adventures to other
surrounding countries in the region.
While the US under President Trump seems to make appeasement towards the
Kremlin’s aggression, the American President must acknowledge the fundamental
threat posed by Putin towards a peaceful Europe. Putin’s expansionism MUST be
countered now to avoid putting global stability at risk.
The time has come for Europe to break free from its chronic dependence on
the US. The era of relying on America as the world's major decision maker
should be over. With the current US administration's "America
First" policy, it's clear that Europe can no longer afford to outsource
its foreign policy. After all, the crisis in Ukraine is a European problem.
The days of relying on NATO and the UN to dictate global politics are
behind us. Europe must now take charge of its destiny, reclaiming its global
leadership. With an indelible history of shaping the world order, European
powers have the influence to forge a new path. The irony of America, once a
British colony, dictating global politics for so long is not lost on us. It's
time for Europe to rediscover its voice and assert its influence, particularly
in light of the current Donald Trump administration's unpredictable style
towards global affairs.
As the world grapples with the challenges of great power politics, Europe
has a unique opportunity to step up and lead. By engaging with other global
powers, such as China, Europe can help shape a multilateral solution to
conflicts like the crisis in Ukraine. The future of global stability and
security depends on Europe's ability to lead and forge a new path.
To the brave people of Ukraine, know
that the world stands with you. Your resilience and determination will
ultimately lead to triumph. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth, and
every setback is a step towards success. Hold on to hope, stay steadfast, and
know that victory over oppression is inevitable. Ukraine will rise again,
stronger, and more radiant than ever
