Trump’s Harsh Critique: Europe Called ‘Weak’ and ‘Decaying’ as Ukraine Support Wavers

Donald Trump has suggested he may withdraw support from Ukraine while intensifying his criticism of Europe, characterizing the continent as “weak” and “decaying.” The US president claimed Europe is “destroying itself” through its immigration policies, making remarks that have alarmed leaders across the Atlantic.
Trump struggled to identify Ukrainian cities beyond Kyiv and misrepresented aspects of the ongoing conflict. He recycled controversial narratives about European immigration that observers say echo extremist conspiracy theories. His comments have sparked widespread concern among European officials about the future of transatlantic relations.
The president pressured Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to accept a proposal that would require ceding territory to Russia. Trump argued that Moscow maintains the “upper hand” and insisted Zelenskyy’s government must “play ball.” According to reports, US envoys have given Ukraine just days to respond to a peace proposal that would force territorial concessions in exchange for unspecified American security guarantees, with Trump reportedly hoping for a deal before Christmas.
Trump repeatedly framed Europe’s challenges in racial terms, suggesting major cities like London and Paris have fundamentally changed because they are becoming less white. He specifically targeted London Mayor Sadiq Khan with harsh personal attacks, calling him “horrible” and “incompetent.” Khan responded by saying Trump appeared “obsessed” with him, expressing bewilderment at the president’s fixation on London’s mayor.
European leaders have responded with mounting dismay to these interventions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz rejected the notion that European democracy requires American salvation, stating that Europeans would handle their own affairs. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the White House’s approach as provocative, while European Council President António Costa declared that threats to interfere in European politics are unacceptable. Pope Leo XIV also weighed in, expressing concern that Trump’s stance could fracture what has long been a crucial alliance between Europe and the United States.