International Social Science Journal (Chinese Edition)

No.1, 2025

 

 

Ji Wengang

 

In the three years since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, profound changes have taken place in the geopolitical structure of Europe. The strategic autonomy of the EU remains in the construction phase, and the power over European security has been dominated by NATO. Moreover, the security narrative of NATO is led by the Central and Eastern European countries, mainly those on NATO’s eastern flank. As a result, the importance of the countries on NATO’s eastern flank to both the EU and NATO has been increasing, and the geopolitical focus of Europe is gradually shifting towards the Central and Eastern European region. The security of Central and Eastern Europe is essential for the security of the EU, and the security of the EU is crucial for the security of Europe. Without the support of the United States, the EU cannot effectively play its role in European security, and the geopolitical status of Central and Eastern European countries would be even more precarious. Ultimately, the Central and Eastern European countries aim to strengthen themselves economically, be politically autonomous, and ensure their own security in diplomacy and defense. By doing so, they can enhance their ability to cope with systematic external pressures and safeguard their significant geopolitical value and status.