European officials knew the president’s win would threaten the fundamental precepts of the post-World War II order. But the speed at which it is unraveling has created a crisis of enormous proportions.

Heightened tensions could more easily boil over into a larger military conflict, as Russia continues to strive for power and influence, and has recently welcomed pro-Moscow governments in former soviet republics Moldova and Georgia. And now it seems Russia’s biggest enemy has become its closest friend.

Europe wants to have a place at the table. Well, I told them, fight yourself a way to the table by coming up with concrete proposals,” said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.