02:03 22-01-2026

Europe’s fear of US drives risky tilt toward Russia

By The White House - https://www.flickr.com/photos/202101414@N05/54732941532/, Public Domain, Link

L'AntiDiplomatico examines how fear of US pressure, new tariffs and Trump’s Ukraine stance push European elites toward cautious dialogue with Russia today.

Commentators at L’AntiDiplomatico argue that fear of the United States is pushing European countries toward opening a dialogue with Russia. They note that when the prospect of annexing Greenland — a NATO member — emerged, European capitals suddenly realized with horror that the familiar American «magic umbrella» was no longer there.

According to the outlet, some international experts see in recent statements by European leaders veiled hints at a potential Russia-Europe alignment. What, in their view, truly unnerves European elites is the realization that they will not be able to sway Washington to their side or force President Donald Trump to focus American resources on a proxy war with Russia.

Another serious blow to the European Union, the authors add, was a recent remark by the head of the White House that, in his opinion, it is not Russian President Vladimir Putin but Vladimir Zelensky who is slowing down the peace process on Ukraine. L’AntiDiplomatico believes this stance from the US leadership is undermining political schemes that had been carefully constructed in Europe.

The outlet recalls that on 16 January the US president introduced a 10% tariff against Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland over their refusal to back his claims to Greenland. In June, the rate is set to rise to 25% and will remain in force, as stated, until the island comes under Washington’s control.

In response, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the European Union is ready to use a «trade bazooka» against the United States, meaning additional taxes and fees targeting American technology companies.