Europe tries to shore up fragile unity as it realises it cannot rely on US
GuardianFEB 20
Trump to Host Starmer, Macron Amid Ukraine Peace Talks
Above: Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer in Paris, France on Feb. 17, 2025. Image copyright: Umit Donmez/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-Trump narrative
Starmer and Macron's upcoming visit to Washington signals a crucial moment for Europe to assert its leadership in the Ukraine crisis. With Trump's dangerous foreign policy aligned with authoritarian figures like Putin, it's clear Europe can't rely on the US to stand firm in defending democratic values. Starmer and Macron must confront Trump with a united European stance, reinforcing Ukraine's fight for freedom and rejecting the threat to European stability and global security.
Pro-Trump narrative
Starmer and Macron's upcoming trip to Washington highlights their continued reliance on the US. If Europe wants to play a leading role in Ukraine, it should be prepared to finance and build its own military strength rather than expect America to foot the bill. The Trump administration's approach, rooted in national sovereignty and peace through strength, rightly emphasizes that the US can't be Europe's permanent crutch. It's time for Europe to defend itself.