In Washington, significant discussions are set to occur this week between President Donald Trump and European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. These meetings come amid a turbulent landscape concerning transatlantic relations. Trump is redefining American foreign policy and increasingly disregarding European involvement as he seeks to swiftly resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Within just a month of beginning his second term, the “America First” approach has raised eyebrows. Trump has made various territorial and resource demands, including claims over Greenland, Canada, Gaza, and the Panama Canal, as well as rare earth minerals from Ukraine, elements critical for U.S. industries such as aerospace and technology. The once steady hand of the United States in maintaining global stability post-World War II is now perceived to be under threat, leading to concerns about a potential shift in fundamental international principles established by the United Nations and other global entities.
Reflecting on this shift, former U.S. ambassador Ian Kelly expressed dismay over the apparent dismantling of decades of policy aimed at countering aggressors, viewing it as a rapid departure from established norms. He lamented how the idea of “peace through strength” has now been replaced with a concept resembling “peace through surrender.”
The timing of these high-level discussions is notable as it coincides with the third anniversary of the Ukraine conflict. Trump will meet Macron on Monday, while Starmer’s visit to the White House is scheduled for Thursday. These encounters follow Trump’s pointed critiques of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, particularly concerning his handling of peace negotiations and refusal to finalize a deal granting the U.S. access to vital resources from Ukraine.
Complicating matters further, European leaders were taken aback by Trump’s decision to engage in preliminary discussions with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia without involving Ukrainian or European representatives. Tension is expected to mount at the United Nations as the U.S. proposes a resolution that diverges from demands made by Ukraine and the European Union for the withdrawal of Russian forces from the region.
Zelenskyy, initially cautious about potential mineral agreements, has highlighted the necessity for robust security guarantees for Ukraine, expressing optimism about progress while emphasizing the importance of secure economic terms. Trump administration officials are hopeful about solidifying a partnership that could integrate U.S. and Ukrainian economies, which they assert would be detrimental to Russia’s interests.
Following a turbulent back-and-forth, with Trump labeling Zelenskyy a “dictator” and incorrectly attributing the war’s instigation to Ukraine, the Ukrainian leader’s candid remarks about potentially trading his presidency for peace or NATO membership have further strained relations. Analysts assert that confronting Trump directly may not yield favorable outcomes for Zelenskyy.
Navigating these complex tensions presents a formidable challenge for Macron and Starmer as leaders of key U.S. allies. Macron plans to convey to Trump the importance of presenting a united front against Putin, warning that U.S. negotiations with Russia could influence future dealings with China. Citing credibility issues, Macron stressed that exhibiting weakness towards Putin undermines the U.S.’s position globally.
Despite expressing admiration for Putin, Trump’s comments about possibly reinstating Russia into the Circle of Seven major economies hint at a unique diplomatic strategy. He suggested that Putin seeks a deal, indicating that if he truly wanted to, he could seize complete control of Ukraine.
Longstanding diplomats have voiced concerns over Trump’s apparent deference to Putin, urging the administration to recalibrate its approach. Robert Wood, a veteran diplomat, asserted that reshaping narratives would not aid U.S. or allied interests, emphasizing that Russia remains the aggressor in this conflict.
