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The United States is Europe’s closest and most important ally and partner. During a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, the transatlantic relationship remains indispensable, writes David McAllister.
President Trump’s first term in office was characterised by unpredictability and a discrepancy between what he said and what his administration did. From what we have seen in the first few days of his second presidency, he has not changed his political style, nor his agenda.
However, neither the US nor the European Union can navigate the current global upheavals alone. Thus, we are well-advised to proactively explore shared interests and opportunities for transatlantic cooperation. Europe should act with unity, determination, and a clear strategy to ensure we remain a strong and reliable partner to the US. A central priority should be the rapid enhancement of our strategic, operational, and defence capabilities. As Europeans, we continue to rely heavily on the US across critical security and defence areas, including intelligence, surveillance, and advanced systems essential for real-time military decision-making. Instead, it is about finally developing the military capacity we should have had long ago, and expanding our contributions to NATO. We must remain transatlantic while becoming more European.
The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine further underscores the need for a stronger Europe. Mr Trump has often spoken of a “quick deal” to resolve Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The question remains: what would such a deal look like? If Ukraine’s sovereignty were compromised, thereby strengthening Russia, it would be a catastrophe for Ukraine and a significant strategic mistake with far-reaching consequences for Europe and the world. A dictated peace favouring Russia must not be allowed. Europe must be prepared to provide advanced weapons systems, financial assistance, and robust security guarantees to Kyiv. Supporting Ukraine’s defence and its path toward EU membership is both a moral obligation and a strategic necessity for us.
The European Union should also address President Trump’s transactional political style by engaging constructively. Rather than falling into a reflexive policy of rejection, European leaders should make pragmatic offers on issues such as defence spending, arms investments, and increased imports of US liquefied natural gas (LNG). The EU-US Trade and Technology Council provides an additional platform for cooperation on shared priorities, including artificial intelligence and digital governance.
In the end, we would be well advised to adopt an even more global perspective. While the US continues to view China as a priority, Europe cannot ignore the broader implications of Beijing’s actions, particularly its support for Russia’s war against Ukraine. The EU should take the lead on addressing challenges such as climate change, safeguarding democracy, and enhancing economic resilience. By doing so, we can position ourselves as a vital partner to the US while simultaneously reinforcing our own strategic autonomy.
President Trump’s second term is an opportunity for Europe to act decisively and reduce our dependence on the US. By strengthening our capabilities and adopting a pragmatic approach, we have a chance to ensure stability, security, and mutual benefit for both sides in an increasingly uncertain world.
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The Author, David McAllister, is the Chairman of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee.
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