The Transatlantic Relationship

This chapter focuses on three central issues in the European Union’s (EU) transatlantic relationship that contribute to Europe’s lacklustre performance. The first concern is a leadership problem, which has bedevilled relations since the Barack Obama administration. The United States (US) has been the dominant partner in the relationship ever since the postwar era, and its leadership has been largely uncontested. However, shifting geopolitical landscapes and the emergence of new global challenges (such as the energy crisis in Europe, the rise of authoritarianism, the rise of populism, threats related to pandemics, vulnerabilities linked to critical infrastructure, pressures related to climate change, and a general surge in global violence) undermine the US’ leadership role and the Europeans’ willingness to follow its lead. During the Obama administration, these factors, along with Obama’s desire to step back from the headship role, resulted in a leadership vacuum, creating instability and uncertainty in the transatlantic relationship. The Joe Biden administration should be commended for its commitment to taking the lead on behalf of the Western campaign in supporting Ukraine and fostering solidarity in the face of Vladimir Putin’s invasion. Still, the deliberations regarding the supply of tanks and other military assets to the Ukrainian army, which clearly required more heavy weaponry and ammunition, highlight that the alliance’s cohesion is not guaranteed, and that US leadership is provisional.