The senior official, one of the leaders of the French government, estimated on France Inter, that “Perhaps the harshness of the president’s words may finally provoke a shock and an awakening,” following the statements of the Republican leader at the swearing-in the day before.
Lecornu described Trump’s intentions and the ratification of his “America First” vision, which presupposes challenges for the European Union (EU) in sectors ranging from the automotive industry and energy to the devaluation of the euro, as a serious kick in the ass for European capitals.
Referring in particular to defense issues, he questioned the temptation of Europe to submit to the protection of the US nuclear umbrella instead of developing self-industry.
For the French minister, it is a historical contradiction always to purchase weapons from the northern power, which with Trump back in the White House could put pressure on the EU and distance itself from some of its positions, for example, the support for Ukraine shown by the 27-country bloc in the conflict with Russia.
He also rejected the proposal of an agreement with Washington in exchange for trade peace. We are not going to trade our security for hamburgers and German cars,” he said.
Yesterday, before Trump’s swearing-in, Prime Minister François Bayrou had considered that France and the EU should react to the policies announced by Trump.
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