Donald Trump has raised fundamental questions about whether European nations will continue as American allies, citing immigration-driven changes as a potential source of incompatibility. The president’s speculation comes while he pressures Ukraine to accept territorial concessions to Russia.
Trump’s proposed Ukraine peace framework would force President Zelenskyy to cede territory to Russia within days. American diplomatic efforts have focused on achieving rapid agreement, with Trump publicly characterizing Russia as holding military advantages. The vague nature of proposed US security commitments has raised questions about the value of American security promises.
The president’s rhetoric about Europe employed inflammatory language regarding immigration and demographic change. When asked if European countries would remain US allies given demographic shifts, Trump replied: “Or they’ll be … well, it depends. You know, it depends. They’ll change their ideology, obviously, because the people coming in have a totally different ideology.” His suggestion that immigration might end alliances has been interpreted as threatening European nations with abandonment if they maintain current immigration policies.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan again found himself targeted by Trump’s personal attacks, with the president using exceptionally harsh language. Trump’s criticism of London centered on demographic shifts and Khan’s identity as the city’s first Muslim mayor. Khan responded by characterizing Trump’s focus as obsessive while defending London’s success and diversity.
European leaders have responded with remarkable unity in asserting their independence from American pressure. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made clear that Europe can manage its own democratic affairs, while EU officials characterized the White House stance as provocative interference. Trump’s questioning of whether Europe will remain an ally has been particularly alarming, accelerating European discussions about strategic autonomy. Pope Leo XIV warned that Trump’s approach threatens to destroy the transatlantic alliance that has been fundamental to Western security for generations.