Through steel tariffs and the endless auto trade war, the Trump administration has taken a clearly hostile approach to Europe. It views the continent as not only outdated, but pretentious and parasitic. These realities have fueled a mutually reinforcing transatlantic perception — one that is much more than skin deep but profoundly, fundamentally structural. The future direction of the United States’ relationship with Europe stands at a precipice, with profound consequences for both.
The United States’ contempt for Europe—that unconditional ally—should not startle anyone given its attempts to isolate states globally and force acceptance of its own trade agenda. The current administration’s view of a weak, easily manipulable Europe has led to an administration increasingly empowered to be aggressive. Europe’s reluctance to raise the flag and show strength in numbers further exacerbates this concern. This makes Europe more susceptible to growing US pressure. Just as Europe seems most riven and fractured, the US doubles down on the pressure. This expanding influence shapes a host of issues, from Ukraine to trade deals to even sovereign territory covered with ice such as Greenland.
Economically, the European Union’s collective heft is something the United States can no longer afford to disregard. It’s not just the EU’s regulatory power — the EU’s economic clout makes US industries much more transactional when dealing with Brussels. Even amidst these present tensions, many expect that in short order the United States will strike a deal with the EU. No wonder, then, that the US sees Europe as an easy mark, shaping up the negotiations. Without such a strategy there is a substantial risk that Europe will find itself on the wrong end of lopsided agreements.
The US administration’s strategy has been to, in effect, declare and wage industrial policy trade war against those countries the administration claims are hurting the US economy. This move has completely soured relations with Europe, as the US takes a much more predatory approach. As long as European countries unite on trade issues, they can avoid the US from taking advantage of these divides. European unity would be a blow to American efforts to impose its aggressive posturing.
European leaders are now sounding off, one after the other, against US high-handedness. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has courageously and unequivocally rejected American pressure. This position comes in parallel with the increasing determination of European leaders who are committed to ensuring that Ukraine remains free, independent, and democratic. This commitment continues despite indications the US may be indifferent to or actively opposed toward Kyiv.
We know that Vladimir Putin is actively maneuvering to exploit the rift between the US and Europe. This is a confusing move to make considering the ongoing geopolitical tension. The growing rift between these longtime allies opens doors for Russia. It enables them to amplify their available positive/negative influence and advance strategic objectives, not to mention break transatlantic unity.