The US and Europe aren’t seeing eye to eye
Image: AP
America’s relationship with Europe has come under focus in recent days, following a series of statements and actions by the Trump administration.
Catch up quick: Last week, the Trump admin initiated direct peace talks with Russia regarding its ongoing war in Ukraine.
The talks, which kicked off yesterday in Saudi Arabia, come after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said NATO membership for Ukraine is unrealistic in any negotiations with Russia, and also called the prospect of Ukraine returning to its pre-2014 borders an “unrealistic objective.”
Other examples from last week:
- Trump announced imminent "reciprocal" tariffs on every country that imposes import duties on the US, which are projected to hit ~$600 billion worth of goods from the EU.
- Vice President JD Vance delivered a speech criticizing Europe’s culture, commitment to democracy, and migration policies. He claimed the true threat to Europe’s democracy was “from within,” referring to a retreat from their fundamental values, as well as a failure to listen to the concerns of voters.
Leaders across the pond aren’t too happy. In an emergency meeting called in response to the Trump admin’s statements, European leaders insisted they should be involved in any Russia-Ukraine peace talks, and disagreed with Secretary Hegseth’s statements regarding Ukraine’s induction into NATO.
Leaders from France, Germany, the UK, and other European nations have also criticized VP Vance’s recent remarks about Europe.
Looking ahead…Early indications signal the second Trump term could reshape how America and Europe interact. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called Vance’s speech a sign that “decades of the old relationship between Europe and America are ending.”
📊 Flash poll: In general, how do you feel about the US government’s recent statements and actions regarding Europe?
See a 360° view of what pundits are saying →
Sprinkles from the Left
- Some commentators argue that Vice President Vance’s speech in Munich is eerily similar to a speech given by Putin in the early 2000s and a sign that Europe must do whatever it can to defend itself from the geopolitical dangers the US may bring.
- Others contend that Europe must intensify its efforts to resist the US’ attempts to exclude them and Ukraine from negotiations about Ukraine’s future to ensure the security and preservation of the nation from Russia’s invasion.
- “Europe must stand up for its values.” –The Guardian Editorial Board
- “Ukraine negotiations: Europe's moment.”–Le Monde Editorial Board
- “Ukraine peace talks are Europe’s moment of truth.” –Hugo Dixon, Reuters
Sprinkles from the Right
- Some commentators argue that the Trump administration's strategy with Europe is working. It is finally forcing European nations to step up in defense of Ukraine and the continent at large, a responsibility that has been delegated – mostly – to the US for too long.
- Others contend that the new administration’s first foray into European diplomacy is likely to either force the strengthening of alliances across the continent or bring about an end to decades of trans-Atlantic community and peace between Western unions.
- “Team Trump’s strategy for getting Europeans to step up is working.” –New York Post Editorial Board
- “A Message to Europe From Western Disunion.”–Walter Russel Mead, Wall Street Journal
- “The US does its best when it stands with allies such as Ukraine.” –Chicago Tribune Editorial Board
Share this!
Recent Discussion stories
Discussion
  | February 14, 2025DOGE’s cost-cutting efforts are gaining steam
🏛️ President Trump signed an executive order requiring federal agencies to directly consult with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on best practices for hiring approval, as well as plans for a large-scale reduction of the federal workforce.
Discussion
  | February 12, 2025The Trump admin says pennies don’t make cents
🚫🪙 On Sunday, President Trump ordered the US Treasury to stop minting new pennies, citing the coin’s high cost of production as wasteful government spending.
Discussion
  | February 10, 2025What’s going on with the US economy?
🇺🇸 In recent weeks, economists and federal agencies have published a flurry of data indicating the US economy is experiencing strong economic growth, a solid labor market, and relatively low inflation – but at the same time, the mood of the US consumer is souring.
You've made it this far...
Let's make our relationship official, no 💍 or elaborate proposal required. Learn and stay entertained, for free.👇
All of our news is 100% free and you can unsubscribe anytime; the quiz takes ~10 seconds to complete