Feeling frustrated with Europe lately? You’re not alone. Many share concerns about how some nations—like Spain, France, and the U.K.—handle current issues, sometimes seeming to overlook serious matters like terrorism and antisemitism.
So, what can be done?
Let’s take a step back and look at the relationship dynamics. Recently, President Trump announced a trade deal with the European Union. It includes various tariff adjustments and investments, noting that the EU will purchase around $750 billion worth of U.S. energy and invest $600 billion more into the American economy.
This is significant. Why? Well, it aims to recalibrate an economic playing field established post-World War II, which benefitted Europe while limiting American industry. Sure, that setup was reasonable back in the day, but it seems time for a change.
Moreover, this deal aligns with the surge in U.S. energy production. During Trump’s first term, the country notably increased its output and exports, filling the Strategic Petroleum Reserve effectively. In 2019, the average gas price was around $2.60 per gallon. Fast forward to now, and while some reserves have been drawn down under the current administration, the focus has shifted back to production. Meanwhile, Europe continues to import a major portion of its energy needs—over 58%.
Better to buy from the U.S. than Russia, right?
And there’s more to consider.
Trump mentioned that Europe would also agree to purchase a substantial amount of military equipment. Since NATO’s inception, there’s been a heavy reliance on U.S. support, with member countries often underfunding their military. To shift this, NATO plans to increase military spending to 5% of GDP—set for 2035, which gives nations time to build capacity.
EU President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged that negotiations with Trump were challenging but beneficial for both sides, emphasizing the importance of predictability for businesses across the Atlantic.
Despite this progress, the real story lies elsewhere.
While the U.S. and Europe remain allies, the EU appears to be recognizing that their long-term economic strategies may not serve them well. As they seek balance, there seems to be a tilt toward China. During a recent summit, von der Leyen informed China’s leader, Xi Jinping, that relations are at a critical juncture. The EU is grappling with a significant trade deficit with China—around $360 billion—which has led to what they describe as gross imbalances in trade policies. I mean, it’s a real struggle for Europe as China’s economic model seems to outperform traditional Western frameworks.
Her remarks underline the increasing challenges posed by China’s aggressive economic tactics. In a pointed response, Xi cautioned EU leaders to make sound strategic decisions. Yet, the summit ended without any agreements.
So, what does all this mean?
Europe, often viewing itself as the pinnacle of civilization, is actually grappling with a range of troubling trends. These economic tensions with the U.S. and China are compounded by declining birth rates and rising immigration from people who may not embrace traditional European norms. Then there are the concerns about instability in regions shaped by European colonial borders, leading to precarious governments and ongoing crises, including those in the Middle East and Africa.
In contrast, Israel presents a stark anomaly. Its economy is thriving amid conflict, and its minorities are faring well. There’s no famine—not in Israel or in Gaza, for that matter. Israel stands strong in the region.
This must be a point of frustration for former colonial powers, who are now confronted with the fallout from actions they took in the past. Instead of addressing issues they helped cause, some European countries have chosen to pick fights with the U.S. and Israel. It strikes me as a misstep.
Antisemitism and support for terror from some European nations should not go unnoticed by America. It’s time to confront Europe and demand accountability.
