European Security, Politics, and Economics

The CSIS Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program closely follows political, social, and economic developments in Europe

Europe is the United States’ strongest partner in addressing issues ranging from international security and counterterrorism to multilateral diplomacy, trade, the environment, technology, and human rights and development assistance. As such, the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program analyzes both domestic and pan-European issues, tracking developments in domestic politics, foreign affairs, institutional capabilities, and the integration and enlargement processes of the European Union, providing insight into Europe’s role as a global player and its impacts on U.S. policy and interests abroad.
 

All European Security, Politics, and Economics Content

Filter by

1 - 10 of 196 results

Europe’s Fiscal Crossroads

Europe currently lacks the political and institutional mechanisms to fund crucial investments for a new geopolitical era. The question is, “where will the money come from?”

Report by Max Bergmann and Federico Steinberg — May 8, 2024

The European Union Charts Its Own Path for European Rearmament

The European Union has rolled out its first-ever defense industrial strategy, signaling a leap forward in the bloc's ambition to become a more credible security and defense player. However, doubts remain that the strategy is another false dawn with little funding attached.

Critical Questions by Max Bergmann, Mathieu Droin, Sissy Martinez, and Otto Svendsen — March 8, 2024

Red Sea Cable Damage Reveals Soft Underbelly of Global Economy

Recent damage to three undersea cables in the Red Sea highlights that there are no easy solutions for protecting critical undersea infrastructure. Governments and companies can take steps to improve resilience and enhance maritime awareness.

Commentary by Sean Monaghan, Michael Darrah, Eskil Jakobsen, and Otto Svendsen — March 7, 2024

Arctic Energy Security

Interest in Arctic energy resources has grown in tandem with geopolitical tensions in the region. Two topics in particular may reshape energy security in the European Arctic: climate change and Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

Report by Max Bergmann, Otto Svendsen, Arild Moe, Anne Husebekk, Silje Elde, and Else Kristine Welde — January 31, 2024

Europe Needs a Paradigm Shift in How It Supports Ukraine

A new paradigm is urgently needed for Europe’s military support for Ukraine. The challenge entails getting European defense industries to ramp up production. This requires significant new funding and for Europeans to do something they rarely do in defense: work together.

Commentary by Max Bergmann — January 17, 2024

Why the Washington Summit Should Focus on Europe

Europe cannot defend itself without the United States. But next year’s 75th anniversary NATO summit in Washington provides an opportunity to put Europe on a new course, demonstrate U.S. leadership, and address burden-sharing concerns.

Report by Max Bergmann, Sean Monaghan, and Mathieu Droin — December 20, 2023

Transforming European Defense: A New Focus on Integration

The war in Ukraine has shifted Europe’s focus back onto defense. But transforming European defense requires deeper European integration. The United States should encourage the European Union to leverage the bloc’s significant fiscal potential to spur cooperation.

Report by Max Bergmann and Otto Svendsen — June 15, 2023

The European Union’s Enlargement Conundrum

Membership in the European Union is critical for Ukraine’s reconstruction and future prosperity. But Ukraine’s accession will require deep reforms in Kyiv, visionary leadership from EU leaders to reform the bloc, and an active diplomatic push from Washington.

Report by Max Bergmann, Otto Svendsen, and Sissy Martinez — May 25, 2023

Russia Sanctions at One Year

As sanctions placed on Russia after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine continue to bite, there is growing evidence that these economic restrictions will have a significant impact on the country's economic development and will continue to raise the costs of Putin's war.

Report by Maria Snegovaya, Tina Dolbaia, Nick Fenton, and Max Bergmann — February 23, 2023

A Continent Forged in Crisis: Assessing Europe One Year into the War

Europe's response to the war in Ukraine has been strong and unified. However, comprehensive structural changes to Europe's economy and security architecture have yet to materialize. Significant changes lie ahead for Europe and its allies in the years to come. 

Report by Max Bergmann, Ilke Toygür, and Otto Svendsen — February 16, 2023