"The political debate on European strategic autonomy (ESA) has gained new momentum with Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as the repercussions of this war have raised fundamental questions about the EU's leverage over and dependence on other countries. The main idea behind the concept of ESA is the EU's ability and means to enhance its freedom from a set of external dependencies – and also to enhance its freedom to conduct its policy autonomously and in line with its fundamental values and interests. Yet does the EU have the capacity and agency to set priorities and make decisions autonomously in its external action? What are political, institutional, and material steps needed to achieve strategic autonomy? "

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