Europe needs to get it's shit together 100%, and we are in the process of doing just that going to 5%.
The largest nation in Europe... is devouring the second largest nation in Europe.
And this would have occurred much sooner if not for the combined effort of US + Europe at supplying Ukraine.
Now this effort has lost the United States, and Europe will be down its second largest nation.
So next time... the combined response will be FAR weaker. Where Russia takes on nation(s) that are much smaller than Ukraine.
The future is going to get a lot worse a lot faster, compared to what we have witnessed these past 3 years.
That 5% GDP on defense will mean nothing. NOTHING, unless the nations of Europe band together... and fight.
If they refuse to protect one another, then their 5% means little. Pats on the back as they are picked apart one by one.
What makes you think the next nation will receive even as much support as Ukraine has?
The best outcome for Europe's future would be secured by Ukraine surviving. Not just surviving, but keeping its current size and strength.
Every day that passes with inaction, threatens that future. Pushes the war closer to their lives and their loved ones.
Russia is going to force someone's hand ere long. It would be best to press the attack while you still have a shield to rely on.