Commentary

A Fracture in Transatlantic Relations: Trump’s Foreign Policy and EU–US Relations

By George Robakidze
January 2026

This article examines the growing strain in EU–US relations under Donald Trump’s second term, focusing on Greenland as a revealing test case for transatlantic trust and alliance norms. It highlights the shift toward coercive diplomacy, the weakening of institutional restraints, and the resulting uncertainty for European security. The analysis explores how these dynamics fuel debates on strategic autonomy and challenge the rules-based foundations of the transatlantic partnership.

The U.S. Withdrawal and Its Consequences for Europe and the Eastern Flank

By David Dondua
January 2026

This commentary examines the U.S. withdrawal from 66 international organisations and its wide-ranging implications for Europe and its eastern neighbourhood. It highlights the strategic vacuums created in climate governance, conflict prevention, democracy, and hybrid security, and the challenges these pose for NATO, EU enlargement, and Eastern European resilience. Special attention is given to Georgia, where reduced U.S. engagement strengthens the local government opposed to democratic reforms and EU integration. The piece argues that Europe must assume greater responsibility, reinforce institutions, and adapt to a world in which American participation is selective, conditional, and reversible.

Georgia’s Strategic Future: Rising Hub or Fading Link?

By Teimuraz Janjalia
December 2025

A new analytical article by Ambassador Teimuraz Janjalia, “Georgia’s Strategic Future: Rising Hub or Fading Link?”, explores Georgia’s changing role amid the fast-evolving geopolitical dynamics of Eurasia. As global powers reshape transport, energy, and digital corridors across the South Caucasus and Central Asia, the article examines whether Georgia can maintain its position as a key strategic hub—or risks being sidelined due to internal political turbulence and stalled reforms. Ambassador Janjalia offers a timely assessment of regional shifts, the EU’s growing engagement, and the critical choices Georgia must make in 2025 to secure its European future and strategic relevance. A must-read for understanding Georgia’s place in the new Eurasian architecture.

The 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy: Europe - Wake up!

By David Dondua
December 2025

This commentary analyses the 2025 U.S. National Security Strategy and its profound implications for Europe at a time of war, geopolitical rivalry, and internal political fragmentation. It examines the strategy’s shifting tone on global alliances, its ideological framing of Europe, and the unprecedented intervention into EU domestic politics. The article outlines four possible European responses—ranging from strategic alignment to fragmentation—and argues that Europe must urgently strengthen its defence capacity, political cohesion, and support for Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and Armenia. It concludes that the era of automatic U.S. security guarantees is over, making Europe’s unity, resilience, and strategic responsibility essential to safeguarding the continent’s stability.

The Cost of Distance: What Happens If Georgia Turns Away from the West?

By Nikoloz Khatiashvili
November 2025

In this article, Nikoloz Khatiashvili examines the severe consequences Georgia would face if it turns away from its Euro-Atlantic partners. He argues that distancing from the EU, NATO, and the United States — especially amid the Georgian government’s growing authoritarianism — would leave the country isolated, economically weakened, and dangerously exposed to Russian aggression. Drawing on historical and contemporary evidence, Nikoloz shows that every period of Georgia’s estrangement from the West has invited Russian domination, while Western engagement has enabled reform, resilience, and sovereignty. He concludes that Georgia’s security and democratic future depend on a firm return to the Western path.

Georgia’s European Integration: Legislative Backsliding, Political Regression, Public Determination – Is There a Way Out?

By Teimuraz Janjalia
December 2025

In this concise analysis, Teimuraz Janjalia explores Georgia’s sharp turn away from its European trajectory following the government’s 2024 decision to halt accession efforts. Once a leading reformer, Georgia now faces democratic regression marked by restrictive laws, weakened institutions, and growing distance from EU standards. Citing the EU’s 2025 Enlargement Package, Janjalia underscores how Georgia is increasingly viewed as a “candidate in name only,” even as its citizens persistently demand a return to the European path. He argues that recovery is still possible—through repealing repressive legislation, restoring democratic checks, and renewing genuine engagement with Brussels. The article serves as both a warning and a call to reclaim Georgia’s European future.

The Battle for Georgia: A Last Chance to Save Its Euro-Atlantic Future

By Olga Spirandi
November 2025

In this compelling article, Olga Spirandi examines Georgia’s critical crossroads in its Euro-Atlantic journey. Once a model NATO partner, Georgia now faces democratic decline, institutional erosion, and growing isolation from its Western allies. Spirandi traces this shift from the country’s earlier dignified pursuit of integration—marked by the SNGP, JTEC, and ANP—to a period of mistrust, disinformation, and anti-Western rhetoric. She argues that Georgia’s only path forward lies in restoring democratic credibility, renewing engagement with NATO and the EU, and realigning with the values that once defined its European aspiration. The piece is both a diagnosis and a call to defend Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic future.

Russia’s AI Offensive and Europe’s Cognitive Defence

By David Dondua
November 2025

This article examines how Russia has weaponised artificial intelligence to conduct large-scale disinformation campaigns, spreading propaganda, deepfakes, and AI-generated content to influence public opinion and destabilise democratic institutions across Ukraine and Europe. It highlights the evolution from traditional bot farms to fully automated AI-driven influence operations and the challenges democracies face in responding effectively. The piece also showcases Ukraine’s innovative AI-powered digital defence efforts and stresses the urgent need for Europe to adopt coordinated technological, regulatory, and societal measures to safeguard its information space and strengthen democratic resilience.

The AI Factor in Modern Diplomacy

By David Dondua
October 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies are affecting almost every aspect of modern life, and diplomacy is no exception. This policy commentary examines how AI technologies impact diplomatic actors and transforms the conduct of diplomacy. It also identifies the opportunities and limitations in utilising AI to support diplomatic objectives, highlighting both practical applications and potential risks.

Russia–Azerbaijan Relations: Between Pragmatism and Confrontation

By George Robakidze
September 2025

Russia’s strikes on SOCAR facilities in Ukraine have pushed Moscow–Baku relations into a new phase of tension. In this commentary, George Robakidze analyzes how the targeting of Azerbaijani energy assets goes beyond the battlefield, serving as a tool of political signaling amid shifting alliances in the Caucasus. The piece explores the risks of Russia’s coercive tactics, Azerbaijan’s balancing act between neutrality and Western partnerships, and the broader implications for regional security.

Austria’s Rethink: Neutrality No Longer Guarantees Security

By Téa Parulava
July 2025

Austria’s traditional neutrality is facing renewed scrutiny amid growing security challenges in Europe. In this commentary, we examine recent remarks by Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger questioning whether neutrality alone can safeguard Austria. As the political establishment cautiously navigates public sentiment, a national debate emerges—highlighting the country’s evolving security identity and its delicate balance between neutrality, EU commitments, and NATO cooperation.

Ukraine Listens, Georgia Represses

By Téa Parulava
July 2025

As Ukrainians take to the streets to defend their democratic institutions, their government responds with promises of reform and alignment with European values. In stark contrast, Georgia’s leadership meets mass pro-European protests with repression, punitive laws, and a retreat from the EU path, steering the country dangerously back toward the Russian orbit.

Port of Rotterdam - The Frontline of NATO–EU Defence Readiness

By David Dondua
July 2025

As Europe’s largest seaport begins clearing space for regular military cargo, the Port of Rotterdam is quietly becoming a cornerstone of NATO and EU defence planning. In this commentary, David Dondua explains how the logistical changes underway are a direct follow-up to the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague, reflecting a new level of seriousness in Europe's response to modern security threats. From strategic mobility to EU-NATO coordination, this piece argues that Rotterdam is no longer just a trade hub—it is now part of Europe’s frontline infrastructure for deterrence and defence.

The UK’s Expanding Role in Europe’s New Security Architecture

By Megi Benia
July 2025

In this compelling article, Megi Benia explores the evolving trajectory of UK defence policy in the aftermath of Brexit and in response to intensifying global threats. Analysing the UK’s 2025 Defence Review, she highlights how Britain is reasserting its global role through increased defence spending, strategic partnerships, and a focus on technological superiority. Benia argues that while the UK maintains strong cooperation with NATO and the EU, it is simultaneously navigating a complex balancing act between national sovereignty and multilateral engagement. The article offers a nuanced perspective on the UK’s ambition to be a "problem-solving power," revealing the interplay between domestic priorities and international security imperatives.

Lessons from the 2025 NATO Summit: Building Momentum for Europe

By David Dondua
June 2025

This policy commentary examines the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague as a defining moment for Europe’s evolving role within the transatlantic security alliance. Against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine and rising hybrid threats, the summit signalled a strategic recalibration—from crisis management toward long-term preparedness—with Europe moving from a reliance on U.S. security guarantees to becoming a more proactive co-driver of NATO’s future. Key outcomes, including the unprecedented 5% GDP defence spending pledge by 2035, deeper industrial cooperation, and enhanced support for Ukraine, underscore Europe’s growing responsibility for its own security and the Alliance’s collective defence. The article also examines the political context surrounding the reaffirmation of Article 5, amid questions about the U.S. commitment, and highlights the critical challenge for European governments to translate ambitious NATO commitments into effective national policies. Ultimately, NATO’s resilience and credibility will depend on Europe’s capacity to act decisively alongside its transatlantic partners.

Georgia’s European Journey: A Battle Against Time

By David Dondua
June 2025

This policy commentary reflects on Georgia’s decades-long aspiration to become part of the democratic world and a truly European state, tracing its unwavering public support, historic reform efforts, and recent setbacks under the current government. It unpacks the complex geopolitical realities behind Georgia’s stalled NATO aspirations and evolving EU relationship, emphasising the persistent popular support despite political obstacles and external interference, particularly Russian hybrid warfare. The piece underscores the vital role of a new generation driven by democratic values and justice in renewing the European vision for Georgia. It concludes with a call to resilience and courage, warning that the historic opportunity for Georgia’s European future is narrow and demands sustained effort and international support.

The Stakes of Romania’s 2025 Presidential Election for Europe’s Future

By David Dondua
May 2025

Romania’s 2025 presidential election was more than a national vote—it was a defining moment for the future of European democracy and security. Against the backdrop of rising extremism and geopolitical tensions, Romanian citizens faced a stark choice: uphold their country’s pro-European democratic trajectory or risk a shift towards far-right nationalism that could destabilise not only Romania but the entire eastern flank of Europe. This commentary by the EU Awareness Centre explores why the outcome matters deeply, not just for Romania but for the European Union, its neighbours, and the broader battle to preserve democratic values in an increasingly volatile world.

Peace Must Not Come at Ukraine’s Expense: Why the European Union Must Be at the Table of Peace Talks

By David Dondua
May 2025

As international pressure mounts to negotiate a ceasefire in the Russo-Ukrainian war, this analytical commentary by David Dondua argues that the European Union must not be sidelined in shaping the post-war order. The article warns that a rushed or unbalanced peace—especially one that compromises Ukraine’s sovereignty—would undermine European security, embolden authoritarian actors, and erode the EU’s credibility. It calls for Europe to take a proactive, coordinated role alongside its transatlantic partners to ensure a just and sustainable peace rooted in democratic values and international law.

Analytical commentary: Strategic Role of 'Rogue States' in Modern Warfare

By George Robakidze
May 2025

In this article, George Robakidze explores the shifting of the strategic significance of states traditionally regarded as "rogue" or pariah actors in the international system. Using the example of Russia’s war in Ukraine and its evolving partnerships with North Korea, Iran, Eritrea, etc., the author argues that autocratic regimes once seen as marginal are becoming increasingly valuable in modern conflict due to their capacity for mass mobilisation, disregard for human casualties and ability to sustain war economies. This phenomenon challenges conventional liberal-democratic assumptions about global power hierarchies and the nature of contemporary warfare.

Trump’s Tariff Blitz: Impacts on the Global Economy and EU Response

By George Robakidze
April 2025

Explore the implications of President Trump's recent tariff announcement and its global impact, including the European Union's robust response. Delve into the economic repercussions, potential shifts in global trade dynamics, and the EU's strategy in navigating this evolving landscape. Understand how these tariffs challenge traditional trade norms and what they signify for transatlantic relations and global economic stability.

"The future will not be built by those who stand aside with arms folded, but by those who are involved with the realities of life"

Alcide De Gasperi

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