The author considers the implications arising from the difficulties associated with the ratification of the 2004 Constitutional Treaty. Miles argues that, although the French and Dutch rejections of the Treaty in 2005 may represent a voice of caution on the merits of a 'constitutional Europe', the concept of a 'fusing Europe' provides a useful way to explain the present trajectory of European Integration. Furthermore, the demands of third countries and international actors - that of a 'confusing world' - will continue to offer persuasive rationales for further fusion in the European Union as well as the advancement of EU external relations policy