As the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine enters yet another tense phase, the diplomatic efforts to bring about peace have become increasingly contentious. NATO allies are insisting that Europe, as well as Ukraine, must be involved in peace talks with Russia to ensure a lasting resolution. However, former President Donald Trump, now making headlines for his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, seems to have a different vision. He advocates for direct, bilateral negotiations between the U.S. and Russia, sidelining Europe in the process.

The ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia has brought Ukraine's NATO membership aspirations to the forefront of global geopolitical discussions. On February 12, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at NATO headquarters in Brussels, stating that restoring Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders and incorporating it into NATO were "unrealistic objectives." This statement signified a shift in U.S. foreign policy, which now focuses on limiting direct engagement in the conflict while urging European allies to take greater responsibility.

The European Union has proposed an ambitious €200 billion investment project targeted at advancing the region’s artificial intelligence (AI) industry. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the remark at the AI Action Summit in Paris, highlighting the need for Europe to catch up with global giants like the United States and China.

Since taking office on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump's stance on the conflict in Ukraine has changed. Trump first claimed he could put a stop to the war quickly, even claiming during his campaign that he could do so within 24 hours of assuming office. This quick resolution hasn't happened, though.

President Trump has announced a major policy shift, unveiling plans to impose 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the U.S. This series of trade measures would significantly affect global markets, particularly targeting steel and aluminum imports. He revealed plans to impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum entering the U.S., with the most significant impact on its largest trading partners, including Canada and Mexico. Trump also signaled future actions involving reciprocal tariffs, meaning countries that impose tariffs on U.S. products could face U.S.