President Donald Trump’s recent actions toward American allies, ranging from his attempts to acquire Greenland to threats of tariffs against Europe regarding its potential partnership with Canada, have significantly harmed diplomatic relations with the United States, according to the European Union’s foreign policy chief.
Kaja Kallas, who serves as the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy and as vice president of the European Commission, discussed the state of transatlantic relations during an exclusive interview held on Sept. 24 at the EU’s New York offices during the United Nations General Assembly. Kallas stated that it is evident the relationship has deteriorated as a result of these incidents.
"To be very frank and open, it's clear that the trust between us has been hit. I mean, if you break a vase and glue it back together, it's not the same vase," Kallas remarked. Despite this strain, she emphasized that Europe remains committed to protecting the alliance, noting that collective action is essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and organized crime.
Earlier this month, President Trump threatened the European Union over a proposed arrangement that would make Canada an associate member of the 27-nation bloc. On Sept. 16, Trump informed reporters that he would consider the proposal a "hostile act" and indicated he might impose "very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe on many things." While the category of associate membership does not currently exist and its potential benefits for Canada remain unclear, Kallas dismissed the dispute during the interview.
She noted that the EU is acting with "really good thoughts" regarding the potential arrangement with Canada, a nation currently involved in a trade war with the United States. Kallas emphasized that many countries are seeking deeper ties with Europe because the bloc is viewed as a credible and trusted partner. "So I think our friendship does not really concern anybody else," she added, noting that one can never have too many friends.
