The unprecedent change witnessed in 2025 so far forces decisionmakers, academics and citizens alike to fundamentally reexamine previously held beliefs about our world. For that purpose, the UCL European Institute has commissioned a series of perspectives from leading academics from across UCL and beyond on the changing geopolitical order, and the implications for Europe, the European Union and the EU-UK relationship.
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Ukraine: Ordinary people’s views in a geopolitical battle
Kristin Bakke discusses her new research on ordinary people’s opinions in Ukraine, emphasising their importance amid great power politics. Key findings show increased Western alignment among Ukrainians, scepticism towards concessions to Russia, and continued belief in Western support.
Redefining European Integration: The Impact of Hungary’s Vetoes on EU Governance
In the wake of the potentially terminal weakening of U.S. security guarantees for Europe, the EU is scrambling to respond to yet another emergency and struggling to maintain unity amid internal tensions.
EU–UK Relations: Missing the moment in European Security?
Why is it taking so long for the European Union and the United Kingdom to agree on a formal security and defence partnership?
Trump Tariffs: Implications for the U.K. and E.U.
Dr Aparna Ravi discusses the implications of the Trump administration’s tariffs on global trade, particularly for the U.K. and E.U., highlighting challenges to existing trade systems and potential responses from affected regions.
Unplug and Push Off: View from the Baltics
The Baltic States strive to distance themselves from Russia since independence has gained ever more traction since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, with increasing concerns about great power grand bargains, is prioritizing military readiness and energy independence enough?
Trump II and Sino-Europe Rapprochement: Multipolar or Multilateral Partners?
Richard McMahon & Zhaoxin Li
Dr Richard McMahon and Zhaoxin Li discuss the evolving Sino-European relations amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. With Trump’s unpredictable policies, the EU must delicately navigate stronger economic ties with China while addressing human rights concerns and its close partnership with Russia.
The German Geoeconomic Conundrum
John Ryan discusses Germany’s economic challenges, the implications of the new government coalition, and the need for strategic reforms in response to a growing populist right and increasing global economic tensions.
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