Peace & War

A reflection that is essential to understand the reality of Europe's relations with the new Russia.

"War and Peace", the title of Tolstoy's magnificent work, was the inspiration for this chronicle that ranges from Madrid to the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), which now aspires to be a Greater Russia.

Having overcome the challenge of changing historical rivalries on a continent devastated by two world wars, the European Union now faces another war for its survival. The choice it faces is whether to complete the process of building the European Union as a "European Federation," the objective of the Schuman Declaration, or to languish in the baleful shadow of the neo-tsar Putin. At the same time, the United States has shifted its priorities in its areas of influence and China, India, Brasil and other powers are demanding their place at the table.

The EU has not been invited to dance at this new Congress of Vienna, and must fight for its survival. The war in Ukraine is the ultimate test, on the vast European plain where the destinies of Napoleon and Hitler were decided. Building peace is the work of weavers: it requires will, skill, and perseverance.