The Dangers of Inaction and Misguided Alliances: A Call for Strategic Independence

History has repeatedly shown that both action and inaction by world leaders can have profound consequences. One of the most harrowing examples is Adolf Hitler’s unchecked expansionism during World War II, which led to the massacre of European Jews and countless other atrocities. The international community’s failure to act decisively in the early years of his reign emboldened him, bringing the world to the brink of annihilation.

Fast forward to 2022, when Russia, under Vladimir Putin’s leadership, launched a brutal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. The world watched in shock as Russian forces stormed Ukrainian territory, causing widespread death, displacement and destruction. Yet, the response from some of the world’s most influential leaders was perplexing. Chief among them was former US President Donald Trump, who, instead of condemning the invasion, aligned himself with Putin. Trump’s claim that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was the true “dictator” and that his actions had precipitated the war represented a chilling distortion of reality.

As a columnist focused on international affairs, I find it crucial to examine the dangerous precedent this sets for global diplomacy and the moral implications for the US and its allies. With Trump now serving as US president again in 2025, world leaders, particularly in Europe and Africa, must ask themselves: What lessons should they draw from Trump’s rhetoric and actions? More importantly, how can they chart a course that prioritizes their sovereignty and well-being in an increasingly unstable global environment?

The Global Consequences of Trump’s Alignment with Putin

The Trump-Putin relationship is not new. During his previous tenure, Trump was often accused of being overly sympathetic to the Russian leader, raising suspicions of covert ties. His reluctance to confront Russia over election interference, the poisoning of political dissidents and its aggression in Syria and Crimea was alarming. However, his stance on the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine raised even greater concerns globally.

By labeling Zelensky a “dictator” and blaming Ukraine for the war, Trump dismissed the fundamental principles of self-determination and international law. Ukraine, a sovereign nation, was defending itself against an aggressive power seeking territorial expansion through violence. In failing to recognize this reality, Trump eroded both the United States' moral authority and its credibility on the global stage.

For Europe, a continent that has long championed liberal democratic values, Trump’s position poses a fundamental challenge to the post-World War II international order. His willingness to align with Putin, a leader synonymous with authoritarianism, expansionism, and human rights violations, sends a dangerous message to European allies. It suggests that the US might abandon its commitments in favour of an alliance with an autocratic regime that directly opposes the ideals many European nations have upheld for generations.

Lessons for Europe and Africa
European and African leaders have often looked to the US for leadership in international affairs. However, Trump’s first term, his 2024 campaign rhetoric and his return to office should serve as a wake-up call. The American political landscape is increasingly volatile, with policy shifts often dictated by the whims of a single leader. This underscores the urgency for world leaders to cultivate independent foreign policies that reflect their strategic interests rather than blindly following the US, regardless of who occupies the White House.

For European nations, particularly those in Eastern and Central Europe most directly affected by Russian aggression, the lesson is clear. Trump’s embrace of Putin and his skepticism toward NATO highlight the need for Europe to build stronger, more resilient defense mechanisms. While the US remains an important ally, it should no longer be viewed as the sole guarantor of European security. The European Union (EU) must invest in bolstering its military capabilities, diversifying its diplomatic partnerships and strengthening economic resilience to reduce dependence on the US and avoid becoming collateral in American political turmoil.

Similarly, African nations, long sidelined in global power struggles, must seize the opportunity to assert greater autonomy in international relations. Africa’s strategic position in the global economy, due to its vast natural resources, growing population and emerging markets, provides leverage in diplomatic circles. Strengthening regional ties will allow African countries to mitigate external influence and foster economic and political self-determination. The African Union (AU) has the potential to play a larger role in shaping the continent’s future. By fostering unity, engaging with multiple global powers and advocating for African solutions to African problems, the AU can shield the continent from being a pawn in geopolitical rivalries between the US, Russia and China.

The Role of Moral Leadership in International Relations

Trump’s rhetoric surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war highlights the importance of moral leadership in international relations. Global diplomacy is not just about strategic alliances or economic interests; it is also about upholding the values that underpin a just world order. Democracy, human rights and sovereignty are not mere talking points; they are the foundation of global peace and stability.

Ukraine’s struggle was not merely a territorial dispute but a battle between authoritarianism and democracy. Trump’s comments suggested a false moral equivalency between an aggressor and its victim. However, world leaders must recognize the true nature of the conflict: Ukraine was fighting for its right to exist as an independent state, free from external control. By siding with Putin, Trump alienated democratic nations and undermined the principles of freedom and self-determination that have defined the post-World War II order.

As the global landscape shifts, leaders in Europe, Africa and beyond must remain steadfast in their commitment to these principles. The actions of the US under Trump should not be an excuse for inaction but rather a rallying call for those who believe in a just world. It is time for global leaders to demonstrate moral courage, even when it means challenging the decisions of powerful nations like the US.

Charting a New Course
To navigate an increasingly uncertain global order, world leaders must take several decisive steps:

Diversifying Alliances: Relying solely on the US for strategic support creates vulnerability. Europe and Africa should build partnerships with other global powers, including China, India and regional organizations like the African Union. This will create a more balanced and resilient diplomatic framework.

Strengthening Regional Defense Capabilities: Europe must invest in its defense infrastructure, particularly in light of Russian aggression. Similarly, African nations must bolster regional security initiatives, focusing on counterterrorism, peacekeeping and conflict prevention.

Advocating for Global Norms: Leaders should uphold human rights, democracy and sovereignty. While engaging with powerful nations is necessary, it is equally important to hold them accountable when they violate international norms.

Building Economic Resilience: Economic independence is key to political sovereignty. Both Europe and Africa must work to diversify their economies, reducing reliance on foreign powers, particularly in sectors like energy, technology and manufacturing.

Conclusion
Donald Trump’s actions and rhetoric have exposed the dangers of over-reliance on US leadership. As he remains at the White House, world leaders must heed the lessons of history and forge a future where their foreign policies reflect their own strategic interests and values. By diversifying alliances, strengthening defense capabilities and championing democracy and human rights, Europe and Africa can build a more stable and independent international order, one resilient to the whims of unpredictable leaders. In doing so, they will ensure that history does not repeat itself, and that past mistakes are not re-enacted on the world stage.