Susanne Mundschenk

1 week 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.

2 months ago | 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.

Sep 18, 2024 | newstatesman.com | Susanne Mundschenk

“The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives. The business of Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of Conservatives is to prevent mistakes from being corrected. Even when the revolutionist might himself repent of his revolution, the traditionalist is already defending it as part of his tradition.