Is it time for a velvet divorce between Europe and the US? A new day for the old continent

Due to its location between America and Asia, Europe has always sought to strike a balance in building ties between the West and the East. It is currently at a critical juncture in its diplomatic relations with America, as Trump's aggressive policy has reduced Europe to the old university from which one graduated, learned a lot, and since then has not given it the necessary recognition for its contribution to his professional career, as he considers himself and his temperament solely responsible for every success. Perhaps it is time for Europe to stop crying over the lost laurels of its equal relationship with America and open its eyes to building bridges with Asia, with which it is more closely connected, even historically, as the myth of the abduction of Europa by Zeus states that the young princess Europa was of Phoenician origin, today’s Syria, writes Dimitra Staikou.

For starters, the current analysis of relations between the European Union and the United States is characterized by a generalized imbalance, with the scales tipping solely in favor of the United States. The European Commission has expressed its support for Italy in view of the imposition of tariffs of up to 92% by the US on Italian pasta, which will come into effect in January 2026. Italy has countered that the allegations of unfair competition are unfounded and economically damaging. In August 2025, the EU and the US announced the "Free, Fair and Balanced Trade Agreement," which provides for 15% tariffs on European exports and 0% on certain US exports. In the energy sector, Europe is unfortunately expected to significantly increase its dependence on US LNG this winter due to a reduction in supplies from Russia and Algeria. The US is expected to cover 70% of the EU's LNG needs between 2026 and 2029. Of course, this will come at a price, with energy prices in Europe skyrocketing.

Europe, understanding the implications of its dependence on America, is trying to become autonomous in the field of artificial intelligence. The EU is planning to present its "Apply AI" strategy, which aims to reduce dependence on the US and China in the field of artificial intelligence by promoting the development of European AI platforms. In addition, Europe is preparing for a possible reduction in US military involvement by strengthening its defense capabilities and promoting defense cooperation with countries such as Britain and Germany.

On the other hand, Europe is wisely strengthening its ties with India, as India under Modi's government is a giant of 1.4 billion people that is awakening. It is a country undergoing government consolidation with a booming economy and tremendous developments in technology and artificial intelligence. Furthermore, the strengthening of trade relations between India and the European Union is not accompanied by the imposition of tariffs, resulting in more favorable terms for both sides.

India is one of the world's fastest-growing economies, with a huge domestic market and a growing middle class. Closer cooperation will give the EU access to new investment and consumer markets, reducing its dependence on the US or Chinese markets. In addition, it has strong human capital in technology, pharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence. Through research and innovation partnerships, the EU could gain access to lower-cost but high-quality technological solutions, boosting its competitiveness. It is a country that invests heavily in renewable energy sources. A green partnership could help the EU promote the Green Deal globally, strengthening energy security and sustainable technologies.

Britain has recognized this and is looking forward to India's friendship. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to visit Mumbai on October 8 and 9 to focus on the implementation of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement. This visit underscores the strategic importance of trade relations between the two countries.

On October 1, 2025, the Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) between India and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. This agreement is expected to boost investment and trade flows between the two sides. On September 17, 2025, the EU presented the "EU-India Joint Strategic Agenda," which aims to strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade policy, technology, security, and sustainability. This agenda reflects the commitment of both sides to upgrade their strategic cooperation.

France and India have developed a deep and multifaceted cooperation, which in recent years has evolved into a strategic partnership with an emphasis on defense, technology, and energy. India is one of the most important customers of the French defense industry, with the purchase of Rafale aircraft and cooperation on the construction of Scorpene submarines being prime examples. At the same time, the two countries cooperate closely in areas such as space technology, clean energy, and maritime security in the Indian Ocean. France sees India as a strategic partner for strengthening its presence in Asia and promoting an independent European foreign policy, while India benefits from French expertise and support in its international emergence as a global power.

In recent years, Greece and Cyprus have taken decisive steps to strengthen their relations with India, seeking to reinforce their strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean and expand their economic and political cooperation. Greece has signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with India, covering defense, shipping, energy, education, and technology, while plans are underway to establish a direct Athens-New Delhi air link and promote investment in ports and infrastructure. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's last visit to Greece took place on August 25, 2023, marking the first Indian visit to the country in 40 years and confirming the new strategic approach. Similarly, Modi visited Cyprus in September 2024, where cooperation in shipping, energy, and digital technology was discussed.

In conclusion, in a rapidly changing world where geopolitical balances are being reshaped, the European Union is called upon to review its strategic priorities. Over-dependence on the United States has limited Europe's autonomy in critical areas — from defense and energy to technology and trade. In contrast, India offers the EU an opportunity for multidimensional cooperation, based on shared democratic values, rapid economic growth, and prospects for technological and energy innovation. Strengthening relations with India is not just an option, but a necessity for Europe's strategic autonomy and global influence. A Europe that cooperates with India on an equal footing can shape a new, more balanced international role — a world where power does not come from dependence, but from cooperation and co-creation.

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