Keen On America Why Europe Must Learn the Language of Power
Jan 19, 2026
Marta Mucznik, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, dives into Europe's strategic challenges, emphasizing the need for the continent to relearn the language of power. She argues that the Ukraine invasion has sparked a crucial reevaluation of European security policies. Mucznik insists that effective military deterrence must support Europe's value-based diplomacy and explores innovative ways for the EU to bolster its defense capabilities. She calls for visionary leaders to unite Europe amid rising geopolitical tensions, warning that without change, the gap between Europe and the US-China sphere will only deepen.
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Language Of Power Matters
- Europe must 'learn the language of power' because the world is shifting from rules to geopolitical competition.
- Marta Mucznik says projecting power now matters more than norms and multilateral restraint.
Deterrence Underpins Diplomacy
- Credible diplomacy depends on credible military deterrence.
- Mucznik argues Europe's value-based foreign policy needs military backing to be effective.
Build Independent Defense Capacity
- Build independent European defense capacities rather than fully outsourcing security to the US or NATO.
- Form coalitions of the willing and shared security guarantees to reduce dependence on external actors.