The EU is currently facing adverse shocks that reflect inherent weaknesses, including: (a) the difficulty in building consensus and promoting unified positions, (b) an over-dependence on the US, especially on security issues, (c) disruptions, in recent years, in supply chains, (d) insufficient adoption of advanced technology, (e) slow progress in addressing climate change, and (f) entrenched perceptions of growing inequality. The recent asymmetrical trade agreement with the US has exacerbated
