Irish Examiner view: Europe can forge a new identity

European nations including Ireland must realign as Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin discuss carving up the world

Tue, 18 Mar, 2025 - 01:40

As we wait to see the outcome of Tuesday's discussions between US president Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, there is a growing sense of isolation among European nations as they grapple with the notion that America will no longer be their defensive bulwark.

Trump and Putin will discuss America’s plan for a ceasefire in the Ukrainian war in order to try and pave the way towards an ultimate cessation of hostilities, while European leaders — along with Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney — watch their every move with trepidation.