Why Are European Leaders’ Statements to Putin so Weak? The Roots of Western Realpolitik

In recent years, the world has witnessed a series of diplomatic crises, most notably the strained relations between European leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The question arises: why have European leaders' statements and actions towards Putin been so weak and timid? This article explores the underlying reasons behind such a diplomatic approach and the complex historical and political contexts that shape Western policy towards Russia.

The Historical Context: Realpolitik and the Lessons of the Past

The current diplomatic stance can be traced back to historical precedents, such as the Munich Agreement of 1938, which served as a stark warning against appeasement. The Munich Pact, signed between Germany, France, Britain, and Italy, allowed Germany to annex the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia. At the time, the agreement was hailed as a great diplomatic victory for peace, but it ultimately failed to prevent World War II and is now viewed as a cautionary tale about the dangers of appeasement.

Realpolitik, or the pragmatic and often ruthless approach to foreign policy where a country is willing to make concessions and take actions that might be morally questionable for the sake of advancing its own interests, is at the heart of European leaders' cautious approach to Putin. This strategy is often seen as more practical and less idealistic, focusing on maintaining stability over ideological conflict.

The Evolution of European Union Stance

It's important to note that the first notable stand against Putin was made by Joe Biden, who called him a "murderer." However, the majority of European leaders have been more measured in their responses. This hesitance is not without its roots. In the early 2000s, former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher warned that Putin was not to be trusted after his apathetic response to the sinking of the Russian submarine Kursk. Nevertheless, it took a long time for EU countries to implement sanctions against Russia.

The process of imposing sanctions became even more gradual after NATO began to support Ukraine. The lack of immediate and strong response from Europe suggests a lingering influence of Realpolitik. This approach is characterized by a focus on national interests and compromises that may be made in the pursuit of those interests.

The Influence of Political Forces

The international left-wing influence on European politics has played a significant role in shaping the current diplomatic stance. In many cases, nations in the European Union have come to power through methods that can be described as fraudulent, often backed by financial support from entities like George Soros and the Schwarz clan. These political movements, often socialist or left-leaning, prioritize ideological goals over pragmatic diplomacy.

For instance, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's relationship with Putin is often cited as an example of how certain political leaders in Europe are willing to overlook Putin's actions for the sake of their own national interests. This tendency towards Realpolitik is evident in the historic reluctance of EU countries to take stronger measures against Russia until recently.

The Need for a New Approach

As the world grapples with the complex geopolitical issues surrounding Putin, it becomes clear that a new approach is necessary. The lessons of history, particularly the Munich Agreement, remind us that appeasement is not a viable long-term strategy. Instead, a balance between pragmatism and a commitment to international norms and values must be struck.

Finding this balance will require a shift away from the influence of extreme left-wing ideologies and towards a more diplomatic approach that prioritizes long-term stability over short-term gains. The international community must work together to address the challenges posed by Putin's actions, ensuring that diplomatic efforts are both effective and principled.

Ultimately, the challenge facing European leaders is to navigate the complex landscape of international relations while upholding their values. The success of this effort will determine whether the world can achieve durable peace and stability in the face of Putin's assertive policies.