HAustrian historian Oliver Schmitt analyzed global developments and their impact on the Balkans, emphasizing that today we live in an international order without a single dominant power – a different reality from previous periods of imperial stability, such as the Pax Americana, in a discussion with the publicist Veton Surroi on the PIKċ podcast.
Surroi noted that the Balkans are still facing problems inherited from the 19th century, while entering the second quarter of the 21st century, at a time when world powers are being resized and American influence in the world is fading. He emphasized that the peace built under American dominance is in retreat, adding that the region must reflect on how it will further develop in this new reality.
Schmitt responded by emphasizing the importance of a careful and measured analysis of the current situation, especially US policy. He cited an article from the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, which pointed out that most current analyses aim to position themselves morally or support certain political goals, while the real situation is so unstable that it is impossible to predict with certainty what the US administration’s next steps will be.
“We must ask ourselves how we can develop a policy more independent of the US, but while maintaining cooperation with it. We cannot give hasty analyses in such an unstable reality,” Schmitt declared.
He added that the fear of Russia is real and has contributed to the rise in tensions in Europe, especially in Germany, where fear and anxiety have always been not only social but also political. As an example, he cited the strong reaction of the new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who used the fear of Trump’s policies to support significant changes in German domestic politics.
In conclusion, Schmitt emphasized that in such a complex and unpredictable world, it is imperative to avoid grand theories and hasty interpretations – and that modesty in analysis is the wisest approach at this stage in history.
POINT with Veton Surroin: Guest Oliver Schmitt
