Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has advocated for Europe to serve as the foundation for rebuilding a new international order, emphasizing that the continent should not conform to a more “transactional, insular and brutal world.” Carney’s remarks came during the European Political Community (EPC) meeting, where he became the first non-European leader to participate. The gathering in Yerevan, Armenia, took place amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and uncertainties regarding the United States’ commitment to NATO.
Carney suggested that the era of American leadership might be waning and highlighted Canada’s presence at the European political gathering as symbolic of a shift. “It is my strong personal view that the international order will be rebuilt, but it will be rebuilt out of Europe,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of defending a rules-based international order. The EPC meeting, now in its eighth edition, was strategically held in Armenia to demonstrate Europe’s resolve in preventing the small Caucasus nation from falling back under Russian influence.
Concerns over the US’s dedication to NATO have escalated following former President Donald Trump’s announcement to withdraw more than 5,000 troops from Germany, a move that has intensified European apprehensions about the reliability of transatlantic alliances. Responding to these tensions, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the current strain on alliances, noting that how leaders address these issues could define the geopolitical landscape for generations. French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these sentiments, underscoring Europe’s efforts to take control of its destiny through increased defense and security investments.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted an impending critical juncture for Russia, suggesting the summer as a pivotal time to either expand the war or shift towards diplomacy. Zelenskyy urged that any diplomatic talks should include European representation and stressed the importance of maintaining sanctions against Russia if it chooses to continue the conflict.
The prospect of further US troop withdrawals from Italy and Spain has also been floated by Trump, citing insufficient support for US-Israeli operations against Iran. As of late 2025, the US had 36,436 active-duty troops in Germany, 12,662 in Italy, and 3,814 in Spain. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas remarked on the timing of the troop withdrawal announcement, emphasizing the need to bolster Europe’s role in NATO. Meanwhile, NATO chief Mark Rutte acknowledged past disappointments from the US but noted that Europe is now actively providing logistical support and pre-positioning assets for future operations.