The geopolitical map has certainly been shaken since Donald Trump began his second term as President.
He said in his campaign for office that he would resolve the war in Ukraine and moves do appear to be being made in that direction.
The President has avowed himself against war, which is a good thing.
Most concerning for Europeans though, is what that peace will look like.
It has been interesting to see the question of Ukraine's mineral wealth suddenly being raised by President Trump. Over the previous three years of war, these resources rarely got a mention in the media despite being a crucial part of the war equation.
Indeed, that discourse was one of unending war, causing death and destruction whilst the cash tills of the arms companies rang ever louder.
At least now some of the issues are up front.
The concern for European countries and in particular the UK, is a new defence burden that it seems will be placed on them.
This will cost billions. That money will come from other areas of government. It will mean less money for essential services at home and abroad.
The UK is in a very vulnerable position, out of the EU, and in a different relationship with America. Potentially a small, isolated country in the north of Europe.
How the UK government plays its hand will have consequences for now and future generations.
The present government would do well to remember the warning of a former US President, Dwight D Eisenhower, who on leaving office in 1961, warned of the power and growing influence of the military-industrial complex.
A group who profit from war, they have grown as President Eisenhower warned and wield huge influence.
For every penny spent on war, there is less for everything else.
Good politicians know when to stand up to the generals and arms companies.
We desperately need peace in the world but must not mortgage the future to the weapons industry and those who depend for their existence on war.
It is a fine line to tread but all must proceed with care to ensure a peaceful future.
- Paul Donovan is Labour councillor for Wanstead Village ward, Redbridge Council and a blogger (paulfdonovan.blogspot.com).
