NYT: European leaders develop strategy to counter Trump

European Union leaders at a meeting in Brussels discussed a secret action plan in case of further deterioration of relations with the United States. About this reports The New York Times, citing three European officials briefed on the discussions.

The discussions lasted until the morning and, according to interlocutors, led to a compromise approach. According to the sources, the European strategy is based on three key elements:

→ a restrained reaction, i.e. ignoring the US President's provocations Donald Trump to avoid immediate escalation;

→ economic pressure – readiness to impose counter-tariffs in case of Washington's trade aggression.

→ systemic independence – accelerated work behind the scenes to reduce military and technological dependence on the United States.

According to sources, the positions of European leaders differed. Italian Prime Minister George Maloney called for maintaining a dialog with the US president.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz insisted on rapid deregulation of business in Europe, stimulating economic growth and reducing dependence on the American economy.

President of France Emmanuel Macron said that Europe must show its readiness to counter threats if it wants to be taken seriously in Washington.

Despite the growing rhetoric of strategic autonomy, European officials recognize that there is no quick fix for full military independence from the United States. The EU's financial system remains fragmented, decision-making slow, and member states divided.

• In December 2026, Trump criticized Europe, calling it a "falling apart community" and its leaders "weak people.