The article discusses the European Union's long-standing struggle with declining competitiveness against the United States and China, exacerbated by geopolitical events such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The situation has prompted EU leaders to reconsider their historical complacency and recognize the necessity for strategic autonomy across various sectors, from defense to supply chains. This reflects a growing concern about whether the EU can maintain its open market stance in an increasingly protectionist global environment.

Leaders within the EU have acknowledged the urgent need for strategic autonomy, especially in light of recent events such as Donald Trump's trade policies and the ongoing conflicts that have highlighted vulnerabilities in European supply chains. The proposal of ‘buy European’ is presented as a solution, albeit one that is most effective when applied selectively to sectors deemed strategically significant where reliance on external sources is problematic. This approach suggests a cautious balance between protecting European interests while not entirely shutting off from the global market.

Ultimately, the article raises critical questions about the future of the EU's economic strategies and its ability to adapt to new geopolitical realities while maintaining its foundational values of free trade and open markets. The prospects for achieving this balance will likely shape the EU's competitiveness in the years to come, as the leaders navigate these complex challenges and debates surrounding protectionism and autonomy in the face of external pressures.