
European alliances
European alliances refer to formal agreements between countries to support each other in various ways, such as military assistance or economic cooperation. Notable examples include NATO, a military alliance focused on collective defense, and the European Union, which promotes economic and political collaboration. Historically, alliances, like those before World War I, often created tension and led to conflict when countries were drawn into war through mutual commitments. Understanding these alliances helps explain current geopolitical relationships and the balance of power in Europe today.