Trump's attacks on Europe's leaders worsen transatlantic frost

The past weeks have not been reassuring for those who thought that Europe could navigate its tricky relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump.



Trump this week lashed out at German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over his criticism of the Iran war, calling him "totally ineffective." On Friday, the Pentagon said it would cut 5,000 of the 36,400 troops it has stationed in Germany, and increase tariffs on cars and trucks from the European Union, a move that

will hit Germany hardest.



Trump has taken aim at British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in strikingly personal terms, saying that he is "not Winston Churchill," and threatening to impose a "big tariff" on imports from the UK.



Trump's Defense Department has floated punishing NATO allies that it believes are not supporting U.S. operations in the war with Iran, including suspending Spain as a member and reviewing U.S. recognition of the Falkland Islands as a UK possession.