Why Europe Does Not Withdraw from the Russia-Ukraine War

Abstract

This paper analyzes the geopolitical dimensions of the Russia-Ukraine war and the underlying reasons for Europe’s sustained support for Ukraine, examining the primary international and regional perspectives. The study addresses the European Union’s approach as a defense of the international order, state sovereignty, and common security, alongside the pivotal role of Germany in transforming its security policy post-2022. Concurrently, it presents the Russian narrative, which perceives the expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as an existential threat to its geopolitical objectives and the “Russian World”, as well as the Ukrainian perspective, which views the conflict as a battle for national survival and territorial integrity. Furthermore, the paper analyzes dissenting opinions within the EU, the skeptical stances of certain member states, and the potential impact of a United States “America First” foreign policy. The central argument posits that for Europe, this war represents a fundamental test of continental security, the credibility of NATO, and the defense of sovereignty as an established international norm. Ultimately, the conflict transcends a mere regional crisis, constituting an essential trial for European security architecture and long-term transatlantic unity.