When there is nothing you can do about a problem, discuss theory instead. This cynical ground rule applies particularly well to EU foreign policy, that most underperforming part of the European project. As a consequence, there is very little that EU types, devoid of any executive power in foreign policy, love more than discussing the alleged conflict between values and interests.

Few debates in Brussels are so frequent, and few are so futile. Because, in a democracy, values and interests are in reality one and the same thing. The real-life dilemma between idealism and realpolitik is not caused by a structural gap between values and interests. It is caused by time. Or, rather, by the lack of it. Here is why.

Let’s say the EU has important trade relations with some undemocratic but powerful country somewhere in the world. Human-rights advocates will charge realpolitik-driven politicians with selling out European values for good trade relations or for peace and quiet on the political front. Proponents of realpolitik will accuse the supporters of values of preaching from the moral high ground. That attitude will sour relations with powerful partners and undermine economic relations without achieving anything for the victims of government wrongdoing.