The Crisis Room A wild week for the West
Jan 22, 2026
In this engaging discussion, George Robertson, former UK Defence Secretary and NATO Secretary General, shares insights on the evolving landscape of global alliances. He reflects on invoking Article 5 after 9/11 and assesses whether the U.S. would come to Europe's aid in a crisis. The conversation dives into NATO's strains, the need for Europe to enhance defense spending wisely, and the importance of unity amid rising global tensions. With sharp commentary on recent events and Trump’s unpredictable leadership, Robertson offers a thought-provoking take on the future of transatlantic ties.
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Episode notes
Davos Showed Fractured Transatlantic Trust
- Donald Trump's Greenland threats and tariff talk intensified friction across Western allies this week.
- The episode left partners relieved but bruised and increased long-term transatlantic tension.
Economic Integration As A Weapon
- Mark Carney framed recent events as a rupture, not a transition, where economic interdependence becomes coercion.
- He warned tariffs and financial tools are now used as weapons between great powers.
No Instant Kill Switch On UK Systems
- The UK's key defence systems are deeply interwoven with the U.S., not instantly severable.
- Losing U.S. technical support would degrade capability over years, not days, but would be costly to replace.
