Relations between the United States and Europe are strained again following a series of statements by the president Donald Trump targeting several European leaders, against a backdrop of disagreements linked in particular to the war in Iran.
The US president publicly attacked German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, calling him "totally ineffective" after his criticism of American strategy. He also targeted British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, saying he was "no Winston Churchill" and threatening to impose heavy tariffs on the UK.
Beyond verbal attacks, Washington is considering more concrete measures. The Trump administration has raised the possibility of reducing the number of American troops stationed in Europe, particularly in Germany, where there are more than 36,000. The Pentagon has also reportedly discussed sanctions against certain NATO allies deemed insufficiently committed to American operations.
Among the options discussed are drastic measures, such as questioning Spain's position within the alliance or reassessing American support for British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.
These tensions arise in an already fragile context, marked by disagreements over the war in Iran. According to several European diplomats, the more aggressive tone adopted by Washington is now pushing European capitals to adopt a firmer stance towards a partner deemed increasingly unpredictable.
For many observers, this further deterioration in transatlantic relations is reminiscent of the beginning of Trump's previous term and raises questions about the future of cooperation between the two sides of the Atlantic.
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