Donald Trump shocks global diplomacy, claiming the European Union was created to “screw” the United States, reigniting tensions with new tariff threats.
WHEN POLITICS GOES INDUSTRIAL
Donald Trump has ignited a new geopolitical firestorm. In a striking statement, he claimed the European Union was formed to “screw” the United States. The timing is no accident. As the former president gathers support for another campaign, he’s leaning hard into economic nationalism.
“They’ve done a good job of it,” he told reporters. “But now I’m president.” The message is clear: it’s about power, not partnership.
THE TRADE WAR DRUM BEATS AGAIN
Trump’s administration is preparing to launch new tariffs on EU imports, including a proposed 25% hit on European cars. This spells potential trouble for Germany and its struggling export economy.
The U.S. currently runs a trade deficit of $235.6 billion with the 27-member bloc. For Trump, that’s reason enough to push the button. A full announcement is expected soon.
But the European Commission isn’t standing down. It promises a “firm and immediate” response if the U.S. follows through.
A EUROPEAN UNION UNDER ATTACK
Trump’s words challenge decades of U.S. foreign policy. From its founding in 1993, the EU was seen by previous U.S. leaders as a pillar of peace—a mechanism to prevent another European war.
Yet Trump flips that narrative. He has openly supported Brexit and attacked NATO, opting for his signature “America First” doctrine.
Former Swedish PM Carl Bildt responded bluntly:
“Trump has a seriously distorted view of history.”
FRACTURES IN TRANSATLANTIC DIPLOMACY
The fallout is already showing. A planned meeting between EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Secretary of State Marco Rubio was suddenly cancelled, reportedly over “scheduling issues”.
But behind the scenes, the transatlantic rift is widening. On Monday, the U.S. even backed a Russian-led UN resolution, opposing most of its European allies.
TRUMP’S DOUBLE TAKE ON HERITAGE
While targeting Europe’s economy, Trump also made a half-hearted nod to his own European roots.
“I guess I’m from there at some point a long time ago, right?”
But his policy moves say otherwise. Tariffs. Trade pressure. Ukraine left in Europe’s hands.
Even as President Zelenskyy visits Washington to finalize a controversial mineral wealth deal, the message remains: America first, Europe last.
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