The article critiques the European Union's handling of current crises, particularly the ongoing emergency which is being downplayed in political discourse. The upcoming European Council is framed as a delayed response to structural issues that could weaken the Union's cohesiveness. Discussions will revolve around the war in Ukraine and competitiveness, but critical beneath these topics is the looming energy crisis that reveals deep divisions among member states.

The author points to a stark divide between countries like France and Germany, which benefit from nuclear energy and robust financial resources, and those such as Italy, Portugal, and Poland, which are struggling with high energy costs and industrial slowdowns. This disparity fosters a hierarchical structure within the EU where stronger member states dictate outcomes rather than fostering a spirit of solidarity and cooperation among all nations. Such dynamics shift the Union’s identity from a collaborative project to a competitive arena where the interests of weaker economies often go overlooked.

Ultimately, the article warns that this lack of unity and the inability to act as a cohesive front could lead to further fragmentation within Europe. As the crisis escalates, the call is for a reassessment of how the EU can effectively manage emergencies and ensure all members are supported, emphasizing the need for a more equitable approach to challenges that impact the entire continent.