Networks are a better mental model than states.Within a state, there are many networks. From ideological groupings to digital communities. They aren’t internally homogenous.Between states, the countries themselves belong to networks. Multilateral fora like ASEAN or WEF.China is the closest exception to the rule. Perhaps the most internally homogenous large state, and least globally dependent on others. But even China isn’t fully an exception, if you look closely.All these types of informal networks are beco ...

Geopolitical Landscape & Security Concerns - The inclusion of former Warsaw Pact and Eastern European countries into NATO was a deliberate decision to prevent territorial disputes and promote democracy [2] - Concerns exist among European leaders that President Trump's administration might "sell Ukraine short" and fail to prevent Russia from further aggression against former Soviet states or rolling back NATO enlargement [4] - European leaders fear a potential abandonment of Ukraine by the U S, which could threaten the security of the entire Europe [13] US-Russia-Ukraine Relations - President Trump has been accused of making untruthful statements regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, particularly suggesting that it is up to Zelensky to end the war [6] - European leaders are seeking verifiable wins, including ensuring President Trump does not pressure Ukraine to cede territory to Russia [6] - There are concerns that President Putin has no intention of stopping the war, potentially dragging it on, especially with a U S president who might allow it [7][8][9] European Response & Leadership - European leaders are trying to ensure U S backing for security guarantees for Ukraine to deter future Russian aggression [7] - Mark Rutte, the former Netherlands prime minister and the secretary general of NATO, is seen as a potential leader in pushing back against Trump's alignment with Putin [12] - The Financial Times editorial described Trump's summit with Putin as an embarrassing failure and a terrible mistake [10]