By Xinhua writer Wu Liming
LONDON, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- "History does not repeat itself, but it often rhymes." This adage aptly captures the evolving dynamics between the United States (U.S.) and Europe.
Nearly two decades ago, the Iraq War drove a deep wedge between the U.S. and its European allies, with France and Germany openly opposing Washington. At the time, leaders on both sides exchanged sharp remarks, while European officials pushed for greater defense independence and strategic autonomy.
Today, history seems to be echoing itself. A new diplomatic rift has emerged - this time over the Ukraine crisis. Once again, Europe finds itself sidelined in major security decisions. A case in point is the recent U.S.-Russia talks on Ukraine held in Saudi Arabia, where neither Ukrainian nor European leaders were invited. This exclusion has heightened anxieties across Europe over its diminishing control over its own security policy.
According to the Financial Times, Armin Papperger, CEO of a leading German defense contractor, warned that European nations have been relegated to "the kids' table" in negotiations over Ukraine's future. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these concerns in an interview with regional newspapers, emphasizing that "there will be no lasting peace without the Ukrainians and the Europeans."
In the meantime, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance recently provoked a strong backlash from European leaders by stating in Munich that Europe's greatest threat comes from within.
AN UNBALANCED PARTNERSHIP
At a deeper level, Washington - both then and now - has pursued a unilateral approach, often disregarding European interests. Despite their longstanding alliance, U.S. - Europe relations have never been truly balanced. Washington's political and military dominance has historically placed Europe in a subordinate role, leaving it struggling to counter America's unilateral actions.
Another key factor contributing to Europe's marginalization is its waning global influence. Economically, the European Union, once a formidable rival to the U.S., now faces a widening gap in economic performance and competitiveness.
Moreover, internal divisions continue to weaken Europe's ability to present a united front on the Ukraine crisis.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that he is "ready and willing" to deploy British troops in Ukraine if necessary. In contrast, Macron has ruled out sending French ground forces, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed the idea as "totally premature." These divisions further undermine Europe's credibility and leverage in global affairs.
If Europe seeks to break free from this historical cycle and achieve true strategic autonomy, it must redefine its approach to diplomacy and global governance. As Starmer noted in Paris, "At this moment, we have to recognize the new era that we are in, not cling hopelessly to the comforts of the past." ■
