Europe braces for strained ties as US policy shifts
Relations between Europe and the USA are entering a new phase where Europe can no longer rely on Washington's unconditional support. The Munich Security Conference concluded on Sunday, and according to "The New York Times," it highlighted that relations between Europe and the USA are in deep crisis.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, speaking in Munich, noted that Europe cannot depend on Washington's uncompromising support - reminds "The New York Times".
The U.S. envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellog, emphasised that the Trump administration does not want European leaders to directly participate in negotiations with Russia.
Norbert Roettgen from CDU stated that Europe must understand the changing world. In his opinion, the speeches by Vance and Kellog were antagonistic and demonstrated that the traditional understanding of relations between Europe and the USA is no longer valid.
In the context of the upcoming parliamentary elections in Germany, Roettgen's words take on special significance. The U.S. Vice President met in Munich with the leader of the far-right AfD, Alice Weidel, which sparked controversy.
Change in the U.S. approach to Ukraine
The actions of the Trump administration indicate a shift in Washington's approach to the crucial issue of Ukraine for Europe. The U.S. President spoke with Putin without consulting European allies, raising concerns that Europe may become a pawn in negotiations.
"The New York Times" also points out that Russia's narrative, which claims Western interference was the reason for the invasion of Ukraine, is gaining traction in Washington. Evidence of this is the nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence, who echoed the Kremlin's narrative.
Europe closes ranks
Ukraine has clearly declared that it will not agree to any deal made behind its back. Kyiv rejected the U.S. proposal concerning the division of mineral resources in exchange for security guarantees.
After the Munich Security Conference, French President Emmanuel Macron invited European leaders to Paris for discussions on the situation in Ukraine and European security.
