Nearly 50 European leaders will meet in Armenia on Monday to address critical continental challenges, including energy security – but the summit has been overshadowed by recent comments from the US president that threaten to drive transatlantic relations to a new low.
Over the weekend, the American leader Donald Trump announced plans to cut thousands of US troops stationed in Germany. He accused European nations of ignoring requests for assistance in the conflict with Iran and for help in re-opening the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also promised to raise tariffs on European Union car imports to 25 per cent, arguing that the bloc had failed to meet the terms of a trade agreement.
In response, many European leaders have begun reassessing their ties with Washington. Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, warned that the NATO alliance risks collapsing and called on member states to reverse what he described as a “catastrophic trend.” During the meeting in Armenia, leaders are likely to start shaping a new strategy.
European politicians are increasingly adopting a firmer stance towards the United States. Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, labelled the conflict with Iran illegal and banned the use of Spanish airspace to support any strikes. Germany’s defence minister, Boris Pistorius, noted that the presence of US troops in Germany benefits both the United States and Europe, while stressing the need to strengthen European security.
The European Commission has so far taken a cautious approach on trade matters. A commission spokesperson said the bloc remained committed to predictable transatlantic relations but was ready to defend its interests if the US takes measures that contradict a joint statement.
