"Optimists latch on to the hope that the stability we have lost can be restored post-Trump. Having spent the past few days in Washington, I doubt it. Even in recent history, things were not quite so bad for the transatlantic relationship. The current tensions make the first Trump administration look like a walk in the park for Europeans. It is one thing to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump did in his first term."
"It is quite another to bomb Iran and give Israel the green light for its war against the regime. It is one thing to be threatened with tariffs, and have to offer empty promises, as Jean-Claude Juncker did, to buy more US goods. It is quite another to swallow 15% US tariffs, leaving a queasy-looking Ursula von der Leyen giving a thumbs up for the cameras next to a smirking Trump."
Transatlantic relations have deteriorated and current tensions surpass those under Trump's first administration. Actions cited include withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, threats and imposition of tariffs, and the potential for direct military escalation with Iran. European leaders endured 15% US tariffs and symbolic compromises such as Ursula von der Leyen's public endorsement. Security cooperation has weakened: early Javelin transfers to Ukraine contrast with current limits that force Europeans to purchase US weapons. Vladimir Putin's assertive conduct further strains alliances. Restoring past shared kinship appears unlikely even if Trump leaves office, with separation or managed disengagement more probable.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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