FOREIGN POLICY OF EUROPEAN COUNTRIES AS A FACTOR IN SHAPING A NEW GEOPOLITICAL REALITY

Abstract

The article examines the foreign policy of European countries as a key factor in shaping a new geopolitical reality amid the war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. It reveals the transformation of European states’ approaches to security, defense, integration, and international cooperation after 2014, when the annexation of Crimea began, and especially following the full-scale invasion in 2022. It is noted that the initial caution and selectivity of actions were gradually replaced by a consolidated position aimed at supporting Ukraine, strengthening sanctions against the aggressor, expanding military assistance, and intensifying diplomatic initiatives within the EU and NATO. Based on the analysis of political decisions, official documents, sociological studies, and statistical data, it is shown that European policy has gradually acquired a strategic character focused on ensuring regional stability, strengthening the system of collective security, and protecting democratic values. The article emphasizes the significant role of public support in EU countries, which enhances the legitimacy of government decisions and contributes to strengthening international solidarity with Ukraine. It has been proven that the interaction between state institutions, civil society, and international organizations forms a new model of European security, in which Ukraine occupies a central place as a partner and guarantor of stability on Europe’s eastern flank. It is determined that modern European foreign policy combines instruments of diplomacy, sanctions pressure, humanitarian support, and military assistance, creating the prerequisites for a long-term transformation of the European security space. The results of the study have scientific and practical significance for developing recommendations on Ukraine’s further integration into European structures, increasing the effectiveness of international partnerships, and improving the state’s foreign policy strategy in the context of current global security challenges.