Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has massive consequences far beyond the immediate events of the war. In addition to the suffering of the victims of destruction and attrition, and the deaths of many thousands, the supposedly reliable conditions in international relations have been shaken. The turning point of February 24, 2022 – that much is certain, despite all uncertainty about the outcome of the war – is a key moment of global dimension in the history of the 21st century.

Europe is facing a geopolitical acid test. It is not yet clear what balance of power Vladimir Putin’s murderous attempt to subdue the neighbouring country will leave in its wake. But already changing priorities and new imperatives dominate the political debate and agenda: military logic has moved to the strategic center, economic interdependency is considered a liability, increasing social tensions make Western societies more vulnerable to anti-democratic movements.

At the same time, the war affects an adequate response to major crises that need to be addressed without delay: Global warming and species extinction, famine and natural disasters, wars and grave human rights violations beyond Europe’s borders. Transnational problems necessitate joint, coordinated action. But circumstances are even more difficult than before. The statics of the international political architecture are unstable and have become even more fragile in the course of the war against Ukraine. For the time being, Russia is no longer a partner of the West, China is increasingly acting as a rival.

In this situation, Europe more than ever needs to build its own sovereignty on the solidarity of the EU members. Fundamental issues are at stake: defending the principles of liberal democracy, rule of law and human rights, protecting peace through an international order based on binding rules, and securing the future of the European Union as an ambitious model of cooperation and integration.

Thus, nothing less is required than a strategic readjustment of the European project. Success or failure will determine whether Europe can maintain its place among the global powers.

The 25th International WDR Europa Forum on June 6, 2023, will address these issues under the lead question

“Marginalised in geopolitics? Europe’s role after the ‘Zeitenwende’”