【By Observer Net, Wang Hui, Zhang Jingjuan】 "Europeans have no choice but to be prepared to stand up for their own values." Behind the remarks of former Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev during the "2025 Congdu International Forum" are not only the reality shock of the Trump administration's "28-point peace plan" on the Ukraine issue, which bypassed allies, but also a reflection of the EU's urgent desire to decouple from the United States, reduce dependence, and accelerate the pursuit of strategic autonomy.

In a conversation with Observer Net, Plevneliev said directly that Europe is now waking up, and its relationship with the United States has "drastically changed compared to five to ten years ago," and if the United States chooses to isolate itself, it is his own decision.

This former president emphasized that Europe's choices are clear: they believe in core values such as freedom, solidarity, peace, market economy, and democracy, and must be prepared to stand up for these values even without the United States.

"That's why Europe is receiving a lot of 'awakening signals.' We are seeking self-defense, and like the United States and China, we will firmly express our position on the global stage," said Plevneliev.

Former Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev, Observer Net

However, there are still multiple obstacles on this path. Former Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme told Observer Net frankly that the EU's dependence on the US in the security field is too high, its innovation and productivity are insufficient, and its competitiveness on the global stage is not enough.

According to AFP, over 60% of the military equipment and systems currently used by the EU come from outside the EU, mainly from the United States. The EU hopes to reduce this proportion to 45%. Although the "European Defense Industry Plan" will receive the first funding of 1.5 billion euros between 2025 and 2027, it still seems insufficient.

Leterme emphasized, "The EU needs to catch up and build a stronger economic system."

Former Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme, Observer Net

Today, the Ukraine issue has become the focal point of the split in US-EU relations. In response to the US attempt to marginalize Europe, Plevneliev said, "Europe is the main player in this matter, and it is Europe that is paying the price. The US is no longer investing a penny, and the cost is borne by Europe, and we will continue to bear it."

"The US can play whatever role it wants; regardless of whether the US is involved or not, we will use all possible means to defend Ukraine," he said. In his view, Ukraine is part of Europe, and if Europe fails on the Ukraine issue, it would be a complete failure for Europe.

Compared to being marginalized, Leterme said, "Europe is a bit worried that the US might abandon the Ukraine issue." He believes that the international community should work together to seek sustainable solutions that respect international law.

Aside from the differences in the Ukraine dilemma, the unpredictability of the Trump administration has also added a series of variables to US-EU relations.

Plevneliev used Canada as an example to remind people: "The closest ally can become an 'enemy' overnight, and Canada was subjected to large tariffs, and more tariffs are coming."

Regarding the recent escalation of US-Russia relations, this former Bulgarian president said that he believes Russian President Putin and US President Trump are not real friends, and this relationship cannot last long. The two countries lack a common value and interest basis.

From December 1 to 3, the "2025 Congdu International Forum" hosted by the Australia-China Friendship Association, the Chinese Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Guangdong Provincial Government, and the World Leaders Alliance was held grandly at the Congdu International Conference Center in Guangzhou.

The forum, themed "Together for a Shared Future," invited more than 30 former heads of state, government leaders, and heads of international organizations from around the world to gather and discuss major global development issues.

Original: toutiao.com/article/7579204086625583635/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.