Collective Security Was Always a One-Country Show

Washington pulls out, and the world's most powerful military alliance collapses

In Brussels and other European capitals, there’s currently an active discussion about how to move forward if NATO suddenly ceases to be what it’s traditionally been.

The reason is understandable in view of Trump’s statements about a possible review of the US role in the alliance.

Dear readers and subscribers,

This situation is close to a classic European crisis: lots of talk, roundtables, and interviews, but no clear answers. One diplomat honestly admitted that the alliance is “paralyzed” and is already struggling to function.

To put it simply, the system on which European security has relied for decades has suddenly turned out to be not so independent. The problem is that the entire NATO structure was originally built on the American “guarantee.” As soon as Washington starts to question, “Do they really need this?” panic sets in across Europe.

“Collective security” without the US turns out to be like a brilliant presentation.

Now, Europeans are frantically considering options.