Brussels: Leaders of the European Union gathered at a castle retreat in Belgium this week to discuss how the bloc should respond to growing pressure from the United States, China and Russia. The informal meeting brought together heads of state and government at a time when Europe is facing economic uncertainty and rising security concerns.
The talks focused on how Europe can strengthen its position in a world that is becoming more divided. Many leaders said the European Union must become more competitive and less dependent on major powers for defense, technology and critical supplies.
The United States remains an important partner for Europe, but recent policies under President Donald Trump have caused unease among several European governments. Some leaders are worried about trade measures and shifting security commitments. At the same time, others argue that Europe should maintain strong ties with Washington while pushing for fairer trade and cooperation.
China’s growing economic influence was another key issue. European officials expressed concern about dependence on Chinese manufacturing and technology. There were calls to invest more in European industries such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, semiconductors and defense production.
Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine and its broader security threats were also discussed. Leaders agreed that Europe must continue to support Ukraine while strengthening its own defense capabilities. There is increasing recognition that Europe needs to take greater responsibility for its security rather than relying heavily on outside partners.
However, differences remain within the 27 nation bloc. Some countries favor reducing regulations and expanding global trade to boost growth. Others support stronger protection for European industries and common financial tools to fund large projects. These divisions are expected to continue as leaders prepare for a formal European Council meeting in March, where concrete decisions may be taken.
Public opinion across Europe is also shifting. Recent surveys suggest that trust in the United States has weakened, with many Europeans calling for greater strategic independence. This mood is influencing political debates across the continent.
The castle retreat did not produce final decisions, but it marked an important step in shaping Europe’s future direction. As global tensions rise and economic competition intensifies, the European Union is trying to define its role in a rapidly changing world.