Susanne Mundschenk

3 weeks ago | eurointelligence.com | Susanne Mundschenk |Wolfgang Munchau

In war there is the world of suffering, and the world of politics. The two do not often interact. Eventually there comes a point in any conflict when the suffering is so great that politics has to change. Israel has reached this point in Gaza. After over 600 days of war in Gaza, the declared goal of Israeli government is still to eradicate Hamas and its infrastructures. Israel’s peace-by-force strategy is devastating to civilian lives in Gaza. Success of its strategy is far from assured.

1 month ago | eurointelligence.com | Susanne Mundschenk |Wolfgang Munchau

Shortly before his death Pope Francis wrote: "Peace-making requires courage, much more so than warfare." These are not words that are frequently cited in his obituary. Not everybody wants peace. Peace is not only about the territory but also about beliefs and loyalties. The land sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims has known endless wars. It is a land where the cycle of violence is repeating itself, leaving behind a long trace of mistrust, fear and broken promises.

Mar 17, 2025 | eurointelligence.com | Susanne Mundschenk |Wolfgang Munchau

Europe’s sudden rush to raise defence spending distracts us from asking more pertinent strategic long-term questions. What is our goal for the post-war era with both Ukraine and Russia? And what strategy would be best to get us there? Europe has an objective – that Ukraine must win whatever it takes. But Europe lacks a strategy of how to achieve this objective, and certainly no strategy for what happens afterwards.

Feb 7, 2025 | eurointelligence.com | Susanne Mundschenk |Wolfgang Munchau

Donald Trump thrives on chaos, but the rest of the world does not. Within just 10 days of coming to office, he managed to sow anger and confusion everywhere. He is slapping trade tariffs on allies, freezing foreign aid and presenting to the world the idea that US could own Gaza. What will remain and what will pass? One decision with lasting consequences is Elon Musk’s shutdown of USAID, the largest donor organisation of humanitarian aid.

Dec 3, 2024 | newstatesman.com | Susanne Mundschenk

It is crunch time in France. Yesterday, the Rassemblement National agreed to vote with the left alliance on their no-confidence motion against the government. This came after the prime minister Michel Barnier triggered Article 49.3 to force through the budget. If Barnier’s government is toppled this week, the pressure will be on President Macron to find a new government and a way to pass a budget as fast as possible.