Stathis Kalyvas warned of the rapid destabilization of the international environment in an interview with Giorgos Evgenidis for protothema.gr’s Direct.

Kalyvas described Iran as a “paper tiger” after the recent U.S. strike, highlighted the weakening force of international law, and stressed that Donald Trump’s approach — bypassing institutions and ignoring Europe — is accelerating the shift toward a multipolar but uncertain global system.

On developments in the Middle East, Kalyvas emphasized that the U.S. is determined not to repeat with Iran what happened with North Korea, which, as he noted, has effectively become untouchable — a dangerous precedent for Washington. He argued that the recent American strike exposed Iran’s weakness, calling it a “paper tiger.” According to Kalyvas, Israel’s attack served as the catalyst for subsequent U.S. involvement. The greatest danger for Iran, he said, is facing a clear defeat. In this context, a smart U.S. strategy should provide Tehran with a diplomatic way out before it finds itself in a dead end.

Kalyvas also analyzed Israel’s position, describing Netanyahu’s strategy as consistent and expansionist. He noted that the war is likely to continue, creating new challenges across the region.

Assessing global power dynamics, Kalyvas pointed to China’s growing influence on the international stage. In contrast, he described Europe as the “weak link” in geopolitical developments — lacking a unified strategy and tending to suffer through crises rather than managing them.

Dealing with crises is nothing new for the EU: “Europeans solve their problems through crises,” he said. However, every step toward a common defense means a loss of national sovereignty — a dilemma weighing on many governments.

The Oxford professor also addressed the phenomenon of populism, noting there’s no universal rule for its electoral strength. In countries like Germany and France, he said, systemic risks exist, and populists succeed because they represent forces from outside the system. The response, however, cannot be the constant retreat of the mainstream parties.

Regarding Greece, he warned of the dangers the country faces in an unstable environment. If Europe and the West retreat, he said, Greece will find itself in a very difficult position — politically, diplomatically, and geostrategically.