Thread by @AnnwieAnna

Against a backdrop of severe tensions with Russia, last week’s #MSC2022 was full of bold words, but little bold action. The stakes are higher than ever—but the transatlantic community does not seem to be up to the challenge.
Here are my takeaways ⬇️

Teamwork and US leadership was a common thread through #MSC2022
In contrast to previous crises, #sanctions packages were prepared, coordinated, and ready to be executed within hours.
The #US has also been helpful with #energy security following the suspension of Nord Stream 2.

Meanwhile, French Defense Minister @florence_parly sets “modest” expectations for European defense.
@Bundeskanzler Olaf Scholz called for a strong European pillar in the Alliance, while #Germany’s unwillingness to step up on defense spending prevailed.

This is unacceptable for the 4th largest economy in the world at a time when Europe is facing a transformational threat from its neighbor.
The #US + allies will continue pushing #Germany to step up on defense—not because it is a nice thing to do, but because it is necessary.

Overall, a relatively high level of unity was on display throughout #MSC2022 with broad consensus among leaders on how to deal with Russia.

President @ZelenskyyUa of #Ukraine challenged the consensus by accusing the West of attempting to appease the Kremlin.
Zelensky demanded much bolder action to counter Russian aggression arguing that arming Ukraine is not charity, it is about defending all of Europe.

Specifically, @ZelenskyyUa called for:

🔹An #EU + #NATO timelines for accession talks
🔹Stronger sanctions now
Consultations with the guarantor states of the Budapest Memorandum
🔹A summit of permanent #UN Security Council members adding Germany, Ukraine, and Turkey

At MSC last year, Biden declared that the #US would continue pushing for a Europe whole, free, and at peace. But frankly, those bold words have not been paired with bold action.

Read my full reaction to #MSC2022 here: atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atla…