International Strategic Analysis
Bursting the Generational Myth: The EU Needs a Comprehensive Strategy for Next-Generation Battery Chemistries.
China leads the world’s lithium-ion battery production, especially in electric vehicles, since 2001. Despite its successes, it faces challenges of overproduction and price drops. China strengthens its supply chain for national security and self-sufficiency. Europe considers whether to directly compete with China in future battery technologies.
The Trump Doctrine: Peace through Strength
Donald Trump promotes peace through force in his National Security Strategy, reinforcing a militaristic approach to safeguard US interests. His bet on military power over soft power distances him from potential allies and does not guarantee security against current threats. His aggressive policies generate tensions with the European Union and cause an increase in military spending, weakening the welfare state. Trump seeks to maintain the global status quo, ignoring peaceful alternatives. The president’s decisions reinforce the hegemonic vision of the US, distancing itself from international cooperation and generating conflicts.
Chinese Export Controls on Cathode Technology: Why the EU Needs to Enhance Supply Chain Transparency
The EU must increase visibility in lithium iron phosphate cathode technology supply chains, as China controls lithium iron phosphate cathode technology and dominates the battery market. McKinsey estimates that by 2030, Europe and North America will have between 5% and 10% of global battery production. The 2025 battery technology export restrictions impact European energy storage sovereignty. China seeks to maintain its dominance in battery value chains to exploit dependencies.
Navigating Strategic Challenges
The second Trump term has put Germany in a difficult strategic position, questioning the reliability of the US as a security ally. This affects transatlantic defense industrial relations and generates concerns over European dependence on the US. Germany faces the dilemma of balancing the rapid acquisition of defense capabilities with the strengthening of its defense industries. It is proposed to reduce dependence on the US, promote European autonomy and promote European procurement in defense acquisition processes.
ISPI 2025: The Italian View on International Politics
Italians see an unstable world, trust more in the EU and less in NATO, perceive the US and Russia negatively, believe the world has worsened since Trump’s election, and consider Russia the main global threat. They want peace and a quick solution to the Ukraine conflict.
Transforming EU securitisation: A market-driven approach
The European Union seeks a more market-based approach to securitization, emulating the strength of the US market. The new regulations propose managing loan portfolio risks, simplifying reporting requirements and freeing up funds for additional loans. They will also review the potential of EU securitized assets, promoting more centralized financial supervision and advancing capital market integration.