Europe's Complicity in Trump's Aggression: A Dangerous Silence

The High Stakes of Silence

There's an old Italian saying, “There is no two without a three,” which aptly summarizes Europe's recent foreign policy missteps. Their failure to vocally condemn the audacious military operation undertaken by the Trump administration to unseat Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela stands as the latest example of such complicity. Much like their earlier silence regarding the Israeli military actions in Gaza and their ambiguous stance during the US/Israeli attacks on Iran, Europe's current reticence invites serious questions about the continent's integrity and moral authority.

A Mixed Bag of Responses

While a few European nations, such as Spain, Norway, and the Netherlands, have made commendable exceptions by condemning the US's aggression, the rest have skirted the issue. For instance, leaders like Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, and Ursula von der Leyen acknowledge international law but have done so without exhibiting any real investment in preventing unlawful military actions. Macron mentions the importance of international law while simultaneously making clear that he sheds no tears for Maduro's regime. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz seems to muddle through legalities, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni even justified the attack as a form of “legitimate” self-defense against narcotrafficking. Such responses not only reflect a disparity in values but also position Europe as weak and irrelevant in the global arena.

The Underlying Concerns

This vacuum of strong condemnation raises eyebrows for three main reasons, all linked to European security. The most prominent fear appears to be potential repercussions from Trump himself. Leaders may fear that speaking out against the US could incite a backlash, perhaps in the form of reduced military support or even a withdrawal of American troops from Europe. This scenario, however, has already begun to materialize, with Washington signaling an intention to reduce its military footprint in Europe, making the fear seem rather outdated. We witnessed a troop withdrawal from Romania—not an isolated incident—and this trend will only strengthen if Europe appears weak and cowardly.

Trump's Geopolitical Doctrine

The second concern revolves around what could be termed the “Donroe Doctrine,” an adaptation of the Monroe Doctrine that Trump has wielded to exert US hegemony in Latin America. This doctrine embodies imperial ambitions that could encroach upon European interests, especially as Trump's attention shifts to geopolitical issues like Greenland. When European leaders shy away from condemning an act of blatant military aggression, it paints a portrait of submission to American whims. And let's face it: the more they act as colonies of the US, the more they'll be treated as such.

The Economic Implications

Lastly, one cannot overlook the relationship between Maduro's regime and Vladimir Putin's Russia. While European nations have rightfully classified Maduro as a dictator, their perceived reticence to condemn the US attack hinges on economic considerations. A regime change in Venezuela could lead to increased oil production, which may negatively impact global oil prices and diminish Russia's economic capacity to sustain its war in Ukraine. Does this justify turning a blind eye to such a gross violation of international law? Absolutely not. A violation of sovereignty is a more considerable threat than elevated oil prices.

The Moral Imperative

The fall of Maduro, while perhaps politically palatable to some, should not come about through foreign intervention that undermines the principles of sovereignty and international law upon which Europe was built. The silence of European leaders not only reflects a lack of integrity, but it carries the heavy weight of historical responsibility. As we write today, it is imperative that we reflect on Europe's role in permitting such unilateral actions.

Why have European leaders abandoned their responsibilities?

The Path Forward

As I reflect on these dire implications, I urge European leaders to reclaim their voices—not just for their self-respect but for the preservation of international norms. The future lies in a united stand against tyranny, aggression, and imperialism. To remain silent is to endorse the very nature of power that undermines the sovereignty they claim to cherish. We must ignite conversations around these urgent issues, sparking the kind of debate that can redefine our role on the global stage.

Conclusion

Europe must break free from its colonial mindset, one that has led to its ongoing sidelining in global matters. It is not just a question of taking a stand today; it is about the legacy that will echo throughout history. The world is watching, and if we allow ourselves to be perceived as mere satellites of American policy, we're setting a precedent that will haunt us for generations to come.

• Nathalie Tocci is a Guardian Europe columnist.