Some obviously desire the creation of a European superstate. Romano Prodi, European Commission president, continues in the forefront of those calling for a virtual United States of Europe. Mr. Prodi said in his latest state-of-the-union address: "We want to build something that can aspire to be a world power. It will make European citizenship a tangible daily reality." Mr. Prodi clarified what he meant: "In other words, [we want] not just a trading bloc, but a political entity." In quick response, the British Conservative shadow foreign secretary, Francis Maude, articulated his countrymen's fears: "Following yesterday's admission that membership of the Euro would result in a Britain run from Brussels, Romano Prodi has provided more proof of the EU's superstate ambitions." Meanwhile, Chris Patten, EU external-affairs commissioner, announced EU plans to raise its profile on the world scene. "We should try to ensure that our political influence comes nearer to matching our economic weight," he said. The Telegraph described the plan as designed "to boost [the EU's] role as global policeman" and Mr. Patten's intention as "chas[ing a] superpower role." Mr. Patten's comments highlighted the growing divide between the European Union and the United States. Tory foreign-affairs spokesman Geoffrey Van Orden observed that EU anti-American hostility has become the "sub-text"of the EU's foreign and security policy. "People are very quick to say they support the transatlantic links and the NATO alliance," he said, "but the actions taken are all going in a different direction. The truth is that anti-Americanism is the binding theme." To understand the biblical background to what is happening in Europe, be sure to read "Who Will Be the Next Superpower?" and "Europe's Coming Religious Revival" in this issue. Also request our free booklets You Can Understand Bible Prophecy, Are We Living in the Time of the End? and The Book of Revelation Unveiled. (Sources: Independent on Sunday, Daily Mail, Electronic Telegraph [all London].)