politics
April 3, 2026
The Guardian view on the US and Europe: the UK tried to be a bridge, but Trump likes to burn them
The president’s outbursts on allies and Nato were further confirmation that Europe cannot wait to bolster security – and Britain must play its part
TL;DR
- Donald Trump's actions and statements demonstrate prejudice and vengefulness towards allies.
- His public remarks have targeted the British prime minister, French president, and allies' oil supply, while questioning Nato's relevance.
- Trump's wishful thinking in Iran has clashed with reality, leading to frustration and a desire to distract the public.
- Europe is experiencing weary annoyance and alarm at Trump's unpredictability, which signals a move away from the liberal international order.
- Some in Europe hope for a return to normalcy in transatlantic relations, while others focus on buying time for Ukraine and bolstering European defense.
- Emmanuel Macron criticizes Trump's contradictory statements, while Britain, dependent on US security and vulnerable to economic retaliation, struggles with its position.
- Sir Keir Starmer advocates for closer UK ties with Europe, a shift that may reassure some but needs to be matched by substance.
- Europe must build its own commitments and stronger security arrangements through cooperation, not just increased domestic defense spending.
Continue reading the original article