Group 1 - The article discusses the decline of Europe's perceived prosperity, highlighting that it was built on the exploitation of global resources, particularly from major powers like China, the US, and Russia [3][50]. - Recent protests across Europe indicate growing dissatisfaction among citizens due to rising costs of living and diminishing welfare benefits, signaling a shift from the "high welfare paradise" to a more precarious situation [4][11]. - The article emphasizes that Europe's industrial base is suffering from "deindustrialization," with companies relocating production to countries like China due to high energy and labor costs in Europe [7][25]. Group 2 - The article points out that the welfare state in Europe is under threat, with countries like Greece and Spain cutting pensions and raising retirement ages, leading to increased public discontent [8][9]. - The loss of external support from the US and Russia has left Europe vulnerable, as it can no longer rely on these nations for security and energy supplies, resulting in skyrocketing energy prices [13][21]. - The article notes that Europe's innovation capacity has diminished, as it has become overly reliant on external markets and technologies, falling behind in emerging sectors like renewable energy and artificial intelligence [36][38]. Group 3 - The article highlights the internal challenges of high taxation and welfare dependency, which have created a "lazy trap," making it difficult for businesses to hire and retain talent [27][31]. - It discusses the political ramifications of proposed welfare reforms, where attempts to reduce benefits have led to widespread protests and strikes, indicating a societal resistance to change [33][49]. - The article concludes that Europe's historical reliance on exploitation and external support has led to its current predicament, and without significant reform and self-reliance, the situation is likely to worsen [50][54].