Former U.S. President Donald Trump ignited fresh transatlantic tensions this week, calling European nations "weak" and "decaying" in a Politico interview. The remarks come as Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz vows to strengthen EU autonomy amid shifting global alliances.
"Europe doesn't know what to do," Trump declared, criticizing migration policies and claiming cities like London and Paris are struggling under "the burden" of Middle Eastern and African migration. He also downplayed Europe's role in resolving the Ukraine crisis, saying leaders "talk but don't produce."
The comments follow last week's release of a U.S. National Security Strategy pledging to "cultivate resistance" to European immigration policies. European Council President Antonio Costa fired back: "Allies do not threaten to interfere in the democratic life of these allies."
Chancellor Merz delivered a sharp rebuke Tuesday, calling parts of the U.S. strategy "unacceptable" and emphasizing Europe's need for security independence: "If [democracy] were to be saved, we'd manage that on our own." The Financial Times notes the document dedicates just 2.5 pages to Europe, highlighting growing ideological divides.
As the U.S. doubles down on "America First" policies, this clash signals rocky times ahead for traditional Western partnerships. 💥 Will 2026 see a more self-reliant EU? Stay tuned.
