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Not All Has Been Lost: 9 Reflections on a Partnership That Must Be Renewed

Peter Hefele outlines the steps necessary to re-strengthen trust and re-establish closer transatlantic cooperation as a pillar of European security, political stability, and future prosperity.

"The transatlantic partnership remains indispensable — but it needs renewal," comments Peter Hefele.

"The transatlantic partnership remains indispensable — but it needs renewal," comments Peter Hefele.

Bogdan Hoyaux; European Union, 2022; EC - Audiovisual Service

Reaffirming Transatlantic Ties in a Time of Uncertainty

Few relationships have shaped the modern world as profoundly as the transatlantic partnership between Europe and the United States. For more than seventy years, it has stood as the foundation of shared security, prosperity, and democratic values. 

However, today, this partnership is being tested as rarely before.

Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine, the growing assertiveness of authoritarian regimes, and rising tensions over trade, technology, and energy are changing the global balance. The world of 1945, and even that of the post-1990 era, no longer exists. The known order has given way to a more unstable and competitive environment that demands renewed commitment and cooperation. And with the Trump II administration, the transatlantic relations face unseen conflicts and fundamentally different political orientations.

This Zeitenwende – a genuine turning point – calls on both Europe and the United States to rethink their relationship and adapt it to a new global reality. 

The following nine reflections outline the steps necessary to re-strengthen trust and re-establish closer transatlantic cooperation as a pillar of European security, political stability, and future prosperity.

At a dinner discussion with young leaders from Washington and Brussels on 25 September 2025, Peter Hefele (top left) argued that alliances and allies still mattered — not because of weakness, but because the partnership across the Atlantic remains the most vigorous defence of democracy and freedom.

At a dinner discussion with young leaders from Washington and Brussels on 25 September 2025, Peter Hefele (top left) argued that alliances and allies still mattered — not because of weakness, but because the partnership across the Atlantic remains the most vigorous defence of democracy and freedom.

Mariana Dets; Hanns Seidel Foundation Brussels Office; Hanns Seidel Foundation

Nine Reflections on the Future of the Transatlantic Partnership

1. Not all has been lost

Even if history moves on and frictions will remain, the shared past of Europe and the United States does not simply fade away. For over seven decades, the transatlantic partnership has been the backbone of our security, prosperity, and democracy. This achievement remains a robust foundation that must be preserved and strengthened.

2. A new geopolitical reality

The global environment has rarely been more challenging. The comfortable certainties of the past are gone, and Europe must redefine its identity and role in the world. This debate will shape the continent’s future for years to come.

3. Confronting authoritarian alliances

Both Europe and the United States face growing competition from authoritarian powers seeking to undermine democracy. Stronger coordination is needed across security, trade, and technology. The days of working in isolated policy areas are over; challenges can no longer be viewed solely as regional or from a unilateral perspective.

4. European defence and NATO’s enduring role

Europe is developing its own defence structures, but NATO remains the cornerstone of collective security. The focus must be on fair burden sharing and credible capabilities, not duplication. Europe’s message is clear: We are ready to defend ourselves — and to do so together with our allies.

5. Technological cooperation as a strategic priority

The West’s influence in global technology depends on closer cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and secure supply chains. While approaches may differ — especially when it comes to regulation — Europe and the United States must find common ground on standards and joint initiatives to remain innovation leaders.

For over seven decades, the transatlantic partnership has been the backbone of security, prosperity, and democracy on both sides of the Atlantic.

For over seven decades, the transatlantic partnership has been the backbone of security, prosperity, and democracy on both sides of the Atlantic.

Timon Ostermeier; AI-Generated Content, 2025

6. Staying the course on the green transformation

Europe’s debate on cutting bureaucracy should not be mistaken for retreating from the green transition. The EU’s goal of moving beyond fossil fuels remains firm. What is now needed is a stronger focus on competitiveness, investment, and innovation — along with a constructive dialogue with U.S. partners on how to achieve shared climate goals

7. Reducing dependencies and strengthening economic security

Europe has learned painful lessons in recent years about the risks of economic dependence on authoritarian regimes. It must stay open to the world but protect itself from unfair business practices and coercion. A comprehensive trade agreement between the EU and the United States would be a strong signal of shared resilience and commitment.

8. Re-engaging the public

Public support is vital to the future of transatlantic cooperation. Too often in the last months, conflict and disagreement dominated the debate and mutual perception. We need more positive stories about what has been and can be achieved together — to rebuild trust and a sense of shared purpose

9. Investing in bridge-building

Strengthening the transatlantic relationship requires continuous dialogue and cooperation. Political foundations, think tanks, universities, and civil society organisations play a crucial role in sustaining and advancing this partnership.

A Partnership That Must Be Renewed

The transatlantic partnership remains indispensable — but it needs renewal. The challenges of the 21st century, from security threats to climate change and technological competition, demand joint leadership and action. Europe’s growing ambition for greater strategic autonomy should be viewed as a positive contribution to a more balanced alliance, rather than a sign of distance from Washington. 

Alliances and allies matter — not because of weakness, but because they reflect the fact that in a time of uncertainty, partnership across the Atlantic remains the most vigorous defence of democracy and freedom. 

The values that Europeans and Americans share — belief in liberty, human dignity, and the rule of law — must once again guide their common path forward.

This commentary is based on a speech the author delivered at a transaltantic exchange with young leaders from Brussels and Washington, hosted by the Brussels Office of the Hanns Seidel Foundation and the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies.

The dinner discussion took place on 25 September 2025 in Brussels under the title “Who Needs Allies? A Conversation on the Transatlantic Partnership”. It was part of the 36th annual Hanns Seidel Memorial Fellowship programme which provides senior staff members from leading Congressional offices the opportunity to gain first-hand understanding of the political, economic, and social forces shaping transatlantic relations in Europe. During this one-week program to Munich and Brussels, the Fellows had direct access to high-level decision-makers at the European Union and NATO as well as at the Bavarian State Government, leading industrial players and think tanks.

During the dinner discussion, participants exchanged views on what role should and could the transatlantic partnership play in addressing geopolitical competition, technological transformation, and economic challenges posed by the rise of China. How can allies sustain public and political support for cooperation, while managing differences and expectations?

Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies

About the Author

Dr Peter Hefele is the Policy Director of the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, the official think tank of the European People’s Party (EPP), and alumnus of the Hanns Seidel Foundation. 

At the Martens Centre in Brussels, he is responsible for the development of mid- and long-term policies in the European Union from a Christian-Democratic and conservative perspective.

You can read more about his work and commentary on his website or LinkedIn.