In an era of shifting global dynamics, Mark Carney, the Canadian prime minister, has delivered a stark warning to Europe: it’s time to break free from the United States’ influence and forge new alliances to protect democratic values. Carney’s message, delivered at the World Economic Forum, underscores the urgent need for Europe to embrace a painful emancipation from the US to safeguard its interests and principles.
The New Age of Predatory Great Powers
Carney’s analysis paints a grim picture of the current international landscape. He describes the coarsening of international relations as “a rupture, not a transition,” where might is increasingly asserted as right. In this new age, the principles of territorial integrity, the rule of law, free trade, climate action, and human rights are under threat. Carney argues that liberal democratic “middle powers” such as Canada and European countries must build coalitions to counter coercion and defend these principles.
Carney’s Hedging Strategy
Canada, under Carney’s leadership, has already begun implementing a hedging strategy. This includes diversifying its trade and supply chains and even opening its market to Chinese electric vehicles to counter Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian-made automobiles. This proactive approach is designed to reduce dependence on the US and create a more balanced and resilient economic framework.
Europe’s Dithering
In contrast, European leaders have been slow to act. Many still seem to believe they can appease Trump and his administration by flattery or bribery. Fear of Trump withdrawing from Nato or abandoning Ukraine to Russian dismemberment has paralyzed Europe into inaction. The US president’s insistence on taking possession of Greenland and his threat of punitive tariffs against European allies who supported Denmark in the matter should serve as a red line for a united European response.
The Need for European Unity
Carney’s lesson is clear: Europe can only hope to counter Trump’s abuse of US power if it acts with unity and strength. The Canadian PM warns that negotiating bilaterally with a hegemon leaves countries in a position of weakness, accepting what’s offered and competing with each other to be the most accommodating. This is not sovereignty but the performance of sovereignty while accepting subordination.
Building New Coalitions
Europe must join forces with like-minded countries such as Canada, Japan, Australia, Brazil, and India to build new trade pacts and strengthen global democratic principles. These coalitions can create a third path with impact, one that doesn’t rely on appeasing a hegemon but instead fosters mutual respect and shared interests.
The Greenland Issue
The Greenland issue highlights the fragility of European resolve. Trump’s belligerent speech in Davos, followed by the announcement of a “framework for a future deal” with Nato’s Mark Rutte, muddied the waters. However, Europeans should not be lulled into dropping their guard. The threat of additional tariffs remains, and the need for a firm response is more critical than ever.
Conclusion
Carney’s warning is timely and urgent. Europe must recognize that the age of the western-led “rules-based international order” is not coming back. The time for dithering is over. Europe needs to embrace a painful but necessary emancipation from the US, forming coalitions that will defend and promote democratic principles in a world of great power rivalry.
