The Russian threat is rekindling deep concerns in Europe and revealing divergences in the way the danger is perceived. Democracies, weakened by polarisation and populism, must defend the rule of law more firmly and combat disinformation. The European Union is stepping up its solidarity, giving massive support to Ukraine and creating new tools for democratic protection. A collective response is emerging to preserve freedoms and security.

After the Cold War, Europe reduced its defence efforts and France maintained a minimal but credible nuclear deterrent. The return of aggressive forces and the erosion of international treaties have revived the importance of nuclear power in an increasingly unstable world. By its very existence, French deterrence already contributes to European security. Further development in the form of 'concerted' deterrence is only possible with genuine joint strategic dialogue among Europeans.

The European Union is facing internal divisions, powerful financial interest groups and a certain technological shortfall. With its digital euro project, Europe finds itself at a historic crossroads as China and the United States move forward with their own monetary strategies. Between China's speed, the hegemony of the dollar and the agility of private stablecoins, the European Union must now move from principles to action. North-South rivalries and external pressures risk marginalising Europe if it does not accelerate. To succeed, the European Union must strengthen its resilience (AEUM, cybersecurity), ensure transparency and regulate private actors in order to make the digital euro a lever of its geopolitical power.

Central bank digital currencies mark a major shift in the global monetary balance, in the face of the rise of cryptocurrencies and private stablecoins. They give governments back control over money creation, strengthen financial security and promote economic innovation. For Europe, the digital euro is both a tool of sovereignty and a geopolitical lever designed to reduce dependence on the dollar, protect the financial system and assert its role in the new global monetary order.

Georgia, long committed to European integration, is undergoing a major political crisis: the current government, under Russian influence, has halted the process of European Union accession and dismantled democratic institutions. This authoritarian drift threatens the country's sovereignty and illustrates Moscow's hybrid strategy of extending its influence without resorting to military force. For Europe, the Georgian case represents a crucial test of its ability to defend democracy, respond to Russian interference and assert its geopolitical role in the South Caucasus and Black Sea region.

Agenda

Democratic resilience in Europe in a polarised world

French nuclear deterrence and Europe

The digital euro at the dawn of a new monetary world. Geopolitical challenges, institutional obstacles and roadmap

The Digital Euro at the Dawn of a New Monetary World

The Georgian challenge, a challenge for Europe