It was a troubling day for world peace: the Russia-Ukraine war escalated with the use of missiles, and signs suggest that Trump may be unable to fulfill his election promise, as the conflict takes a new turn.
Europe is stirring, signaling that it is here and ready to act.
The new phase, marked by Ukraine’s attack on Russian territory using long-range missiles provided by the UK and the US, has introduced alarming dimensions and prompted shifts in political strategies.
That said, it must be acknowledged: claiming that a full-scale third world war is imminent is a serious manipulation.
However, following Trump’s declaration that he would end the war and meet with Putin, coupled with Putin’s agreement to such a meeting, the swift deployment of long-range missiles and Europe’s equally forceful response to Russia’s threats indicate that Europe is reshaping the dynamics of the war.
Ukraine launched an attack on Russia using long-range US-made ATACMS and British-made Storm Shadow missiles. In response, Russia deployed hypersonic ballistic missiles and warned it could target Western military installations if necessary, marking the beginning of a new phase in the conflict.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared that the international community would not remain indifferent to the situation, while French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Putin must not be allowed to win the war. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot further stated that military support for Ukraine would be increased, with no red lines in place, and that French troops could be deployed if necessary.
The Secretaries General of the United Nations and NATO have both urged restraint.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer took a firm stance on the war, declaring that Britain stands with Ukraine.
It is noteworthy that after Trump claimed during his election campaign that he could end the war in 24 hours, the rapid and perilous developments, along with Europe’s increasingly decisive actions, have made it clear that, even if Trump assumes the presidency, the issue will remain unresolved for many more 24-hour periods. This policy has been obstructed by ballistic missiles, escalating tensions, and clear European stances.
According to leaked information, though not an official statement from Trump, the plan involves freezing the front line, establishing a demilitarized zone, and keeping Ukraine out of NATO for 20 years.
Of course, every war is tragic due to the loss of human lives, but wars are, unfortunately, driven by complex strategies. Trump’s rhetoric has been countered by long-range missiles and Europe’s “we are in” policy. It is foreseeable that Europe’s initiative will grow both within NATO and in global politics in the future.
For Putin, the détente that began with Trump’s election has now been frozen.
Of course, the process will continue with rhetoric and actions aimed at shifting Trump’s policy.
Europe has unsheathed its sword.
Natural gas and oil prices, disruptions in supply chains, the grain crisis, and the logistics process will remain ongoing challenges.
The growth rate of global trade is projected to slow down.
Russia’s sanctions and isolation from the West may strengthen the ties between the BRICS nations.
However, it would be accurate to say that the most significant outcome is that Europe has begun to showcase its historical strength and ability to formulate policies independent of the US, alongside reorganizing its energy and security strategies and establishing a more autonomous foreign trade network.
A more militarized Europe, one that will grow stronger within NATO.
Of course, any policy can change rapidly.
However, it would be wise for Türkiye to carefully assess these potential changes, position itself within a renewed Europe, shift its focus towards Europe, view it as an opportunity, and reassess its policies.
