The end of the "collective West"

History has started moving again. But neither America nor Europe has a demand for politicians capable of driving it forward.

There is America, which has decided the world has exploited its kindness and wisdom enough. Now, if it is to remain kind and wise, it will only be for a price. And there is Europe, still holding on to its ideals but lacking the strength to make the bold decisions needed today: to curb uncontrolled migration, build military strength, and stop obsessing over trivial matters.

History has started moving again. But neither America nor Europe wants leaders who will drive it. People want those who can at least ensure low prices and calm international relations (even if it's the silence of a graveyard) or, at best, bring back the world as it was before globalization—essentially, before the Americanization of the world.

Paradoxically, the main driver of de-Americanization today is America itself.

Both American and European societies want to rewind history. Modern history hasn't made most people happier than they were yesterday. On the contrary, amid today's billionaires and tomorrow's trillionaires, many feel like children forgotten on a train platform. The irony is that even those future trillionaires don’t look happy (just look at Musk).

This is a new, unhappy reality with two possible exits: either build something new or return to what was.

In America, they've chosen to go back—to a time when everyone had the freedom to be racist and homophobic, and the world was divided into two categories: "our bastards" and "not our bastards." This won't happen in Europe for various reasons, but what will happen there remains unclear.

However, Ukraine’s natural partner is Europe. First, because Ukraine's soul gravitates toward Europe. Second, because Europe, in an increasingly indecent world, has retained its decency. Third, because Ukraine has no other choice but to align with Europe, strive to become Europe, and push Europe toward the necessary changes.

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About the author: Oleksandr Shcherba, diplomat, former Ukrainian ambassador to Austria

The editorial board does not always share the views expressed by blog authors.