Kaja Kalas on U.S. Influence in Europe
Kaja Kalas, the EU’s chief diplomat, expressed concerns about the intentions of the Trump administration, stating that it aims to “divide Europe.” She urged EU member states to unite against what she described as the president’s “hostile tactics.”
“It’s crucial for everyone to recognize the U.S. has been quite clear about wanting to divide Europe. They are not fond of the European Union,” she told the Financial Times. Kalas remarked that the American approach to the EU resembles tactics typically employed by adversaries.
President Trump has frequently criticized the EU’s policies. In a National Security Strategy published in November, he warned of the potential “annihilation of civilization” tied to the EU’s open immigration policies, claiming these overshadowed significant economic and social issues in the region.
“Our response shouldn’t be to say, ‘Let’s handle this bilaterally,'” she emphasized, insisting that the EU should tackle these matters collectively. “They don’t want us united because then we have equal strength,” she argued.
Kalas acknowledged that Trump’s approach bolsters the case made by France and others for a more independent Europe that relies less on the U.S., especially regarding defense matters. However, some EU officials warn that rushing into such a shift could backfire.
When asked about the ongoing conflict in Iran, Kalas noted that the situation lacks a clear resolution. “Honestly, I don’t think anyone has a handle on it,” she stated. “Starting a war is simple, but it typically spirals out of control and leads to greater chaos.”
“I maintain regular contact with ministers in the Middle East, and they are uncertain as well, given that the U.S. has one objective while Israel seems to have another,” she said. “Currently, it’s essential for everyone in the region, and for us as well, to stabilize the situation and seek solutions.”
