Georgian Dream has claimed victory in a contested election, sparking protests and a constitutional crisis. The EU is now under pressure to support Georgians’ democratic and European aspirations while working to prevent further escalation and potential violence.

The Lebanese Armed Forces have a critical role to play in bringing peace and stability to the Middle East. By scaling up assistance for the army, Europeans can effect change on the ground and make Lebanon a proof of concept for geopolitical Europe.

Last week, the leaders of France, Germany, the UK, and the United States met to discuss support for Ukraine and other security issues. But is this format still relevant and representative of the key actors in today’s geostrategic context?

Despite Russia’s hybrid attacks, Moldova narrowly voted in favor of joining the EU. Brussels must now supercharge its support for the resilience and accession efforts of Moldova and other membership-hopefuls in the neighborhood.

For too long, the EU focused on Iran’s nuclear program while mostly ignoring its malign regional activities and missile program. As the consequences of both hit closer to home, the union must pursue a new strategy focused on containing Iran’s regime, supporting Iranian civil society, and engaging with Gulf states.

Amid escalating international crises, Europe appears ill-equipped to offer effective diplomatic solutions. To regain influence as a global player, the EU should adopt an interagency mechanism involving its institutions and member states to develop policy options on foreign issues of strategic importance.

Germany was one of five EU member states to oppose the introduction of EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. What does this move say about Germany’s and Europe’s strategies toward Beijing?

The EU’s focus on security has caused it to shift from a proactive to a defensive democracy support strategy. As a new institutional cycle begins, the union risks downgrading its global democracy promotion efforts too much and relinquishing one of its distinctive geopolitical advantages.

Europe’s financial, diplomatic, and military power could help create the conditions for a sequenced de-escalation in Lebanon. It is also a chance for Europe to prove its ability to act independently of the United States outside the European continent.

Despite strong incoming leadership and an ambitious plan for the next institutional term, a sense of defeatism is spreading across the EU. Rebuilding faith in collective European action must be the top priority.