I understand how the EU started and its purpose. I Just find it a bizarre way to integrate inside out, by aligning internal economic policies. The cynic in me

I understand how the EU started and its purpose. I Just find it a bizarre way to integrate inside out, by aligning internal economic policies. The cynic in me thinks it thrives because it's a bureaucrat and civil service wet dream. I feel like the hardcore pro-european people must feel this deep down and be deeply ashamed that - in 2022 - they are still completely reliant on the US security umbrella despite their increasing edge (on paper at least) over their neighbouring "rival".