Europe struggles for influence as Trump's policies reshape global conflicts

Donald Trump's presidency has reshaped transatlantic relations, with Europe often sidelined on key global conflicts. Despite years of threats, his administration has not withdrawn US troops from Europe or abandoned NATO. Meanwhile, his direct involvement in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire pushed European leaders to the margins, exposing their limited influence in the region.

Trump's approach to the Ukraine war has frustrated European allies. While he sanctioned Russia's oil and gas sector after pressure from Kyiv and bipartisan US lawmakers, his attempts to broker peace talks yielded little progress. The 3½-year conflict continues, leaving European governments struggling to sway his stance.

European military spending has surged in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and its growing aggression toward NATO borders. Yet Europe's economic and political leverage over Israel remains weak. The EU's criticism of Israel, including threats from Ursula von der Leyen to suspend support and sanction extremist ministers, has strained relations with Washington. A US ambassador even dismissed a British official as 'delusional' for claiming the UK played a key role in the Gaza ceasefire.

On trade, Trump's tariff threats against Europe never materialised into the feared 100% import taxes. Economically and militarily, Britain—now outside the EU—has moved closer to its European neighbours under Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He has become a crucial link between Washington and the continent, despite Brexit.

The EU and UK reacted cautiously to Trump's Gaza peace plan, signalling cooperation on UN Resolution 2803. But no major European power, including Britain or France, has formally recognised Palestinian statehood as of early 2026.

Europe's role in global conflicts remains constrained, despite its economic and military efforts. Trump's direct interventions in the Israel-Hamas war and his mixed engagement on Ukraine have left European leaders with little room to shape outcomes. The continent's future influence may depend on how it navigates its relationship with Washington in the years ahead.