FT News Briefing The Rachman Review: Europe’s triple shock: Putin, Trump and Xi
52 snips
Dec 25, 2025 
Historian Timothy Garton Ash, known for his insights on European integration and the end of communism, joins the discussion on Europe's current crises. He explores how Russia’s invasion marks a new era and the missed chances with Russia post-2014. Garton Ash reflects on Angela Merkel's legacy and the mixed responses of European leaders. He highlights Europe’s military support for Ukraine while noting the continent’s geopolitical limitations. The conversation raises questions about Europe's future amidst rising populism and the need for unity against external threats.
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A Paradoxical Merkel Legacy
- Angela Merkel embodied admirable traits yet failed on several big issues like energy dependence and weakness after 2014.
- Garton Ash expects history to judge her as having got major strategic choices wrong.
Europe Confronts A Triple Shock
- Europe faces a triple shock: Putin's aggression, China's alignment with other powers, and the Trump shock.
- He says Europe has responded well on Ukraine, becoming an active defense and aid actor.
Coalitions Make Europe Geopolitical
- Europe can be geopolitically effective when a coalition of major governments and the EU align.
- Garton Ash cites Ukraine as an example where such internal coalitions produced significant action.
