Episode 41: Europe Under Trump: Strategic Challenges and Opportunities with Rosa Balfour

In this episode of the Vienna Coffee House Conversations podcast, Ivan Vejvoda hosts Rosa Balfour, Director of Carnegie Europe, for a deep discussion on the implications of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency for Europe. They explore how Europe has adjusted—or failed to adjust—since Trump’s initial term, focusing on key challenges in trade, defense, and foreign policy. Balfour outlines the vulnerabilities Trump’s policies exploit, including Europe's dependence on the U.S. for security and energy and its fragmented approach to strategic autonomy. The conversation transitions to broader themes of European Union dynamics, from its struggle with internal reforms to balancing technocratic governance with democratic accountability. Balfour reflects on the stagnation in EU integration and how internal divisions undermine its global standing. The discussion also highlights the geopolitical challenges presented by Ukraine, Russia, and the EU’s enlargement ambitions, offering cautious optimism about Europe's ability to adapt to these pressures over time. Ending on a hopeful note, the episode underscores the importance of leadership and unity in navigating the turbulent geopolitical landscape. Despite grim short-term prospects, Balfour expresses confidence in Europe’s resilience and creativity to address the challenges ahead, urging collaboration between policymakers, civil society, and the public sphere.