President Donald J. Trump’s return to the White House has sent shockwaves through Europe, prompting uncertainty over how his policies will impact the continent. The European Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen, has formed a task force to address potential trade disruptions and security threats.
Mr. Trump has threatened to impose sweeping tariffs and increase European defense spending, sparking concerns about the bloc’s ability to negotiate effectively. The task force, which spent 2024 researching possible responses to Mr. Trump’s policies, is focused on tariffs, but its work remains largely behind the scenes.
European officials are treading carefully to curry favor with or avoid angering the mercurial president, while also protecting the bloc’s interests and values. The situation is particularly challenging due to the unpredictability of Mr. Trump’s actions and the potential for a wide range of policy changes in his second term.
While some experts believe that Europe may need to adapt more rapidly to Mr. Trump’s agenda, others argue that the bloc’s existing concerns are already being reinforced by his rhetoric. However, pressure from the United States could potentially draw European nations closer together, with some leaders emphasizing the importance of cooperation and collective action.
As the European Council prepares to discuss security matters on February 3, Europe is bracing for a new era under Mr. Trump’s leadership. With its future trade and security relationships hanging in the balance, the continent will need to navigate this uncertain landscape carefully.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/21/world/europe/trump-eu-policy.html