What is Europe realizing about its current geopolitical position regarding Russia negotiations?

Europe is realizing it has made significant mistakes in its security commitments and defense spending over the past decade and a half, but this realization comes too late. European nations are now frustrated at being sidelined from negotiations with Russia while American diplomats engage Moscow directly. This exclusion is a direct consequence of Europe's own actions and lack of political will to properly invest in defense. Europe now understands it must increase defense expenditures to regain negotiating power, though they're struggling with the timing of this delayed recognition.