The article explores the ongoing Ukraine war, which began when Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated what he termed a 'special operation' on February 24, 2022. It highlights the dire situation as Russian tanks approached Kyiv and the ensuing devastation led Ukrainians to seek refuge in metro tunnels or neighboring countries like Poland and Romania. The war, which has persisted for four years, has upended the European Union's priorities and altered the continent's security landscape considerably, prompted by the realization of the conflict's existential threat.

As the war rages on, Europe recognizes that what began as a localized conflict has broader implications for the continent, especially with the anticipated return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, making European security increasingly reliant on the unpredictable nature of U.S. policies. This dependence raises concerns about how effectively Europe can navigate its security challenges without remaining in the shadows of American decision-making.

The piece emphasizes a growing conviction within Europe that the ongoing war signals a new phase in regional security dynamics, where military preparation and political strategy are increasingly intertwined. The emergence of this mindset indicates a shift from viewing the war merely as a distant threat limited to Eastern Europe to acknowledging it as a significant concern that requires proactive engagement and preparation on a continental scale.