In many ways, Europe’s recent trajectory is a reflection of a complicated and at times stormy transatlantic relationship. This dynamic was exacerbated during the former leadership of former President Donald Trump. For more than a year, leaders across Europe rushed to appease and coo over Trump. In turn, they wanted to placate him so they could maintain a positive diplomatic connection. This strategy has proven to be a total flop. Europe is now in a dangerous place without the bargaining power that other global players—most notably China—possess.
However hard it tries, Europe doesn’t have the same leverage to play against China in its negotiations with the United States. The balance of power is awfully tilted in the direction of the U.S., which can cause much more harm to Europe than it will suffer itself. This dynamic is explored in almost every aspect of their relationship, but particularly highlighted when it comes to economic and military issues. Europe has proven nothing short of amazing resilience. European leaders have backed Copenhagen to the hilt, reaffirming solidarity on Greenland’s sovereignty.
Throughout this period of diplomatic engagement, European leaders have spoken out collectively and individually in support of Denmark’s position on Greenland. Their commitment represents a sea change from the status quo. Most importantly, it signals that Europe is not going to roll over in future negotiations. Perhaps the clearest example so far of Europe’s newfound resolve is in its acceptance of a less advantageous trade deal with the U.S. Moreover, Europe is undeniably meant to be increasing its defense spending.
This decision is evidence of a growing intolerance of the status quo. This suspension is yet another demonstration of Europe’s growing readiness to stand up to U.S. actions that they see as coercive or unjust. EU institutions have already begun laying the groundwork for retaliatory measures if the U.S. goes ahead with what may amount to economic aggression.
Europe’s moves indicate that if the EU has lost some leverage, it is not completely without power. The continent has already proposed counter-tariffs of nearly €100 billion in retaliation against U.S. tariffs and trade practices the continent believes to be unjust. So far, Europe has been vocal and energetic in deploying the anti-coercion instrument to block European single market access. This value-sensitive tool constrains public investments flowing from U.S. firms onto European soil.
Beyond the economic responses, European leaders have moved quickly to strengthen their military collaboration. A group of European nations deployed troops to Greenland for joint military exercises, emphasizing their commitment to regional security and defense collaboration. This latest move is an important signal of a growing united front against any unilateral actions that jeopardize their collective interests.
Though far from sufficient on its own, this failure should not obscure Europe’s silent approval of many of Trump’s worst policies. European leaders responded with horror at Trump’s illegal military adventurism in Iran and Venezuela. This undermines their purported commitment to the rule of law and international human rights standards.