Professor internationale politiek David Criekemans: ‘Bereid je voor. We gaan een dystopische toekomst tegemoet’ | De Morgen

Key Concerns

Professor David Criekemans expresses deep concern over the shifting geopolitical landscape, characterized by growing distrust between Europe and the US, particularly after Trump's public humiliation of Zelensky. He views this as a historical turning point, reminiscent of the post-World War II era, but with the US now urging Europe to solve its problems independently.

The Trump Factor

Criekemans emphasizes Trump's unpredictable actions and their significant consequences:

• Withdrawal of US support: The possibility of the US abandoning Europe in the face of further Russian aggression.
• Shifting alliances: The rapid realignment of European defense strategies due to diminished trust in US support.
• Economic instability: The consequences of Trump's trade policies, drawing parallels to the Great Depression.

He highlights the potential for further conflict, especially if Trump negotiates with Russia to cede Ukrainian territory.

European Response

Criekemans discusses Europe's response to the changing dynamics:

• Increased military spending: The EU's plan to invest €800 billion in European defense.
• Potential alliances: Exploring alliances with Turkey and Canada to bolster European defenses.

He also warns against potential Russian aggression towards the Baltic states.

Dystopian Future

Criekemans paints a picture of a dystopian future, marked by:

• Rise of tech oligarchs: The growing power of individuals like Elon Musk, who control technology and political influence.
• Increased inequality: The widening gap between the wealthy elite and the struggling middle class.
• Political instability: The erosion of democratic norms and the rise of authoritarian tendencies.

Criekemans concludes by warning about the potential for a backlash against Trump and the fragility of the US political system, highlighting the risks of a society heavily armed with weapons coupled with political instability.