As a child, I grew up in the shadow of the Cold War. Our school geography books still showed Europe divided into two opposing blocs, and the adults around me spoke about how the great powers decided the world’s fate. Then came 1989, and as young adults, we believed history had finally turned in our favor. We dreamed of a Europe that could shape its own future, where no one else would decide for us.
Now, at 50+, we find ourselves once again living under the shadow of war. And once again, we see that Europe has no seat at the table where its future is being discussed. The United States is preparing for direct negotiations with Russia—excluding Europe. This sends a clear message not only to Ukraine but to the entire continent: others are making decisions on our behalf.
The Question of Responsibility
In the grand chessboard of world politics, responsibility is always a crucial question. For years, the West has emphasized that Ukraine’s fate is not up for negotiation, that sovereignty is sacred and inviolable. And yet, we now hear reports that the U.S. is willing to strike a separate deal with Russia while Europe watches from the sidelines. What price will Ukraine—and we, as Europeans—have to pay?
When you’re over 50, you’ve seen a thing or two. You’ve learned that political promises often melt away when pragmatism demands it. The U.S. has always prioritized its own interests, and if a deal that sidelines European security suits them, they will take it. But are we, as Europeans, ready to take control of our own destiny?
The Future: Where Does Europe Go from Here?
War is not just a military conflict—it is a geopolitical test. The U.S. decision to negotiate directly with Russia should be a wake-up call for Europe. Not since the Cold War have we been so dependent on decisions made by others.
For those of us in the 50+ generation, this is particularly significant. We remember what it was like when Europe was not free. We remember what it was like when decisions about our future were made elsewhere. And that is precisely why we cannot allow the next generations to find themselves in the same position.
Europe must now decide whether it will remain a spectator or finally take control of its own fate. We cannot wait for others to act. We cannot allow history to repeat itself.Because if we fail to act now, 20-30 years from now, the next generation will be asking the same question: Who decides for us?