All posts by START InSight

Europe’s Defense Conundrum: Why PESCO and Other Initiatives Always Fall Short.

Europe’s Defense Conundrum: Why PESCO and Other Initiatives Always Fall Short.

The European Union has long aspired to bolster its collective security and strategic autonomy. Over the past decade, initiatives such as the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), the European Defence Fund (EDF), and the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD) have been launched to strengthen European defense capabilities. However, these initiatives, while symbolically significant, have failed to provide Europe with a coherent and effective security framework. As geopolitical tensions rise, particularly with an increasingly aggressive Russia and ongoing instability in the Middle East and North Africa, it is time for Europe to acknowledge the fundamental flaws in its current defense approach and consider more radical solutions.

Wagner rebooted

Wagner rebooted

by Andrea Molle(AI-generated cover picture) As of February 2025, the Wagner Group, the most famous Russian private military company (PMC),..
Zizians, the rise of the vegan cult: from philosophy to violence

Zizians, the rise of the vegan cult: from philosophy to violence

The recent arrest of Jack LaSota, known online as “Ziz,” has brought attention to the enigmatic and dangerous group called the Zizians. Once an obscure internet subculture, it has now been thrust into the public eye as authorities uncover disturbing details about the group’s ideology and its links to violent crimes. Under LaSota’s leadership, the Zizians have evolved from a niche philosophical movement into an organized and radicalized network, willing to engage in extreme actions to further its beliefs.

The Philippines: A Geopolitical Linchpin in the Indo-Pacific and Italy’s Strategic Opportunity

The Philippines: A Geopolitical Linchpin in the Indo-Pacific and Italy’s Strategic Opportunity

Italy, as a key European power, has traditionally maintained a limited presence in the Indo-Pacific. However, given the increasing global significance of the region and the close ties currently defining its relationship with Washington, Rome should reassess its strategic engagement. However, while France and the UK have already enhanced their naval and economic involvement in the Indo-Pacific, Italy has yet to fully articulate its role. Italy’s economic interests align with a stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific. The region is a critical market for Italian exports, including defense technology, maritime equipment, and infrastructure development.