The Guardian View: Trump and Europe - More an Abusive Relationship Than an Alliance
The Guardian editorial examines the turbulent dynamic between former US President Trump and Europe, characterizing it as an abusive relationship rather than a traditional alliance. Trump's administration is portrayed as aiming to weaken and dominate Europe’s longstanding security partners while viewing the European Union as a drain on security resources, a competitor, and a cultural adversary.
A White House national security strategy paper is highlighted as exhibiting contempt for liberal democratic values. It seeks to curtail US security guarantees to Europe and leverage pressure on the EU for concessions, reflecting rhetoric reminiscent of Kremlin talking points. The article connects Trump to divisive 'great replacement' narratives and his encouragement of nationalist parties in Europe, framing European integration as a civilizational risk.
Additionally, Trump’s efforts to pressure Ukrainian President Zelenskyy toward an unjust peace deal that benefits both US and Russian aims are noted. This includes mention of a summit proposing that up to £100 billion of frozen Russian assets be used to back a Ukrainian reparations loan. Against this backdrop, the editorial urges Europe to strengthen strategic autonomy, reinforce defence unity, and vigorously promote economic interests. It criticizes Ursula von der Leyen’s June trade deal with the US as overly one-sided.
The piece underscores the challenges posed by a geopolitical landscape where China and the US both seek to dominate the EU, and Russia remains a persistent risk. This reality makes traditional multilateralism untenable. Europe is called upon to resist idealising its alliances and to assert itself robustly. The article also references a hurried Downing Street meeting with President Zelenskyy, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated European responses to critical signals from Washington.
