The European Union is a unique institution, stronger than its member states yet not a federation. Unlike the United States, it unites European nations that began with six founders: Italy, France, West Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. In seventy years, it has grown into a powerful geopolitical actor. However, its unity now faces internal and external threats. Hungary's leader Viktor Orbán, though part of the EU and NATO, obstructs Ukraine's accession, while Russia's war-led by Putin, wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes and child deportations-endangers Europe's stability. The EU's greatest challenge today is preserving peace. Migrants from North Africa and Asia continue to choose Europe because it stands for freedom, democracy, and equality. Protecting these values and ensuring a peaceful, united future remain the Union's highest mission.