European leaders are growing frustrated with what they see as one-sided deals with the United States under President Donald Trump. The concerns come as EU officials warn that Europe risks becoming subordinate to America through a series of concessions on defense spending and trade policies.
Since Trump returned to office, he has demanded that NATO allies increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP, up from the current 2% target. European leaders have largely accepted these demands, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposing an $840 billion defense package over the next five years. The plan includes $150 billion in EU loans to member states for defense investment.
According to Politico, former EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and other European officials have argued that “Trump isn’t, and never will be, an ally” as they criticize the series of concessions made to the US president. These leaders warn that Europe’s acceptance of increased defense spending and trade agreements on Trump’s terms could make the continent America’s vassal state.
Growing calls for European independence from US dominance
The warnings come as Trump has imposed 25% tariffs on European steel and aluminum while demanding Europeans buy more American weapons and natural gas. European officials note that despite these concessions, Trump has not increased his commitment to collective security or avoided punitive trade measures.
None of these men are US allies and never will be. Trump is standing on his own leading our country because we don’t want to bend the knee Russia, China or India. They liked it better when we had a brain dead comatose weak president like Biden but now they’re scared. pic.twitter.com/jV4DEJSwWc
— Rob (@SaltLife_89) September 1, 2025
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban continues to block EU decisions on Ukraine aid, which requires unanimous agreement. The European Parliament has called for reforms to end what they term the “veto-cracy” that allows single members to obstruct union-wide policies. Article 7 procedures against Hungary remain stalled, though some officials suggest moving to qualified majority voting for foreign policy decisions.
European leaders are now exploring ways to reduce dependence on US security guarantees. The proposed European Defense Community would operate independently from NATO structures, while new trade partnerships with countries like India and Brazil aim to diversify economic relationships. As one European official noted, the goal is preventing Europe from becoming “a vassal” through strategic autonomy and stronger internal unity.
