The alternative to this scenario is not only that the EU will remain largely irrelevant as a geopolitical actor, but also that the transatlantic partnership will eventually wither. While Eastern Europeans in particular benefit enormously from NATO’s security umbrella, there is just not enough in the traditional transatlantic cooperation on matters of defense, energy, and engaging with the Balkans and post-Soviet world to keep Americans interested over the long term. Already, in places such as Kosovo, the current administration sees no point in coordinating with the EU. To prevent the transatlantic partnership from becoming a shadow of its former self, the EU must make itself indispensable. Knowing what it wants and being ready to throw its weight around to get it would be a good first step.
