In February 2025, Advantere School of Management became a hub for one of the most pressing global discussions of our time. In collaboration with the Georgetown University Alumni Association Club of Spain and the Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, we welcomed two renowned experts: Abraham L. Newman, Professor of Government at Georgetown University, and Joel Hellman, Dean of the Walsh School of Foreign Service. Their discussion peeled back the layers of the evolving transatlantic relations in 2025, dissecting how globalization, economic influence, and security are shifting under the renewed Trump administration.
The Changing Landscape of Transatlantic Relations in 2025
[/vc_custom_heading][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=»484862″]Joel Hellman wasted no time in setting the stage. According to him, the world today is undergoing changes as profound as the fall of the Berlin Wall or the aftermath of 9/11. The US has frozen humanitarian aid, recalled thousands of professionals, and redefined its foreign policy. But this isn’t just isolationism—it’s a recalibration of power, with strategic focuses on areas like the Panama Canal and Greenland.
Abraham Newman took the conversation a step further, emphasizing how globalization—once a symbol of opportunity—has been weaponized. Financial institutions and tech giants are now tools of economic control, and Europe must rethink its role in this evolving power play. The question is no longer just about economic competitiveness but about sovereignty and security in an increasingly centralized global economy.
Key Takeaways from the Discussion
1. Globalization as a Tool of Power in the Transatlantic Relations
Markets are no longer just about trade. They have become mechanisms of influence, controlled by a small number of powerful institutions. This centralization creates vulnerabilities that countries must address.
2. Trump’s Foreign Policy Playbook
The US is increasingly using economic and political coercion, not just against adversaries but also allies. However, history suggests that bullying tactics are not sustainable in the long run.
3. Europe’s Need for Strategic Action
With leadership vacuums in Germany and France, the EU must decide whether to continue reacting or take control of its global role. The next steps will define its long-term influence.
4. The Intersection of Technology and Power
The relationship between the US government and corporate tech giants is growing stronger. This raises urgent questions about Europe’s digital sovereignty and the control of critical infrastructure.
5. The Importance of a Coordinated Response
To counterbalance growing US pressure, Europe must act in unity. A strategic coalition, possibly including Mexico and Canada, could provide a stronger stance in global negotiations.
The Road Ahead for Transatlantic Relations in 2025
The transatlantic relationship is at a tipping point. For Europe, the challenge is clear: adapt to this new reality or risk being left behind. Strategic coordination, economic resilience, and strong leadership will be key to navigating the uncertainty ahead. The next few months will be crucial in shaping the future of global trade and security.
Advantere: A Hub for Global Dialogue
At Advantere, we believe that meaningful discussions like this are essential. By bringing students, faculty, and partners together with global thought leaders, we create a space where big ideas take shape. The world is changing rapidly, and through conversations like these, we ensure that future leaders are not just prepared for the change—they are ready to shape it. The event was held in Advantere’s state–of–the-art immersive room at Campus Arrupe. This session is part of the school’s year–round activities designed to enrich students’ experiences by connecting them with professionals from diverse fields. These initiatives aim to provide practical insights, stimulate critical thinking, and expose students to real-world challenges in an engaging environment.