Former President Donald Trump’s second term in office has revealed a more radical approach than his first, particularly concerning his administration’s stance towards Europe. This aversion, marked by threats of tariffs and open criticism, has drawn significant attention.

Trump’s hostility towards Europe is multifaceted, stemming from a combination of economic grievances, demographic shifts, and a perceived betrayal of shared values. His actions, including threats to impose tariffs on European Union goods and past remarks about NATO, have fueled concerns about the future of transatlantic relations.

While a recent NATO summit seemed to offer a glimmer of improved cooperation, Trump’s underlying impatience with Europe remains evident. The core of Trump’s animosity lies in the belief that Europe has been taking advantage of the United States for decades, particularly regarding defense spending. He views the transatlantic relationship as increasingly unequal, with the US bearing a disproportionate share of the burden for collective security.

Furthermore, Trump’s worldview, shaped by a zero-sum mentality, leads him to believe that US allies, including European nations, have been treating Americans unfairly. This perception is compounded by a sense that European elites have betrayed their own heritage, jeopardizing the cultural foundations of Western civilization. This sense of betrayal fuels his criticism and contributes to the overall strained relationship.