Europe-U.S. relations at lowest point since NATO’s creation, says Barroso

Investing.com -- Europe and U.S. relations are facing their "lowest moment" since NATO was established, according to former European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso.

In an interview with CNBC on Monday, Barroso highlighted growing doubts about the relationship with the United States, noting that trust issues extend beyond the European Union to include the United Kingdom.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s goal of seizing Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, has contributed to strained diplomatic ties. This approach, along with threats of military action and higher tariffs on European nations, has undermined European confidence in American leadership.

Barroso, who also served as Portugal’s former prime minister, described the current situation as a "rupture phase" where the relationship has become increasingly interest-driven rather than based on shared "democratic values." He characterized Trump as "the great disruptor" who is sometimes "more tough with allies and friends, than with opponents."

On defense matters, European leaders have accelerated efforts toward "European sovereignty" as the Trump administration has increased pressure regarding the bloc’s defense spending.

"If you want to keep NATO, it will be a more Europeanized NATO," Barroso stated, adding that Europe should prioritize strengthening its own defense rather than relying solely on American support.

Despite these challenges, Barroso noted that NATO has grown stronger since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Sweden and Finland joining the alliance and NATO increasing its military presence along its eastern flank.

While expressing pessimism about the current state of transatlantic relations, Barroso cautioned against declaring the end of the alliance, emphasizing that the U.S. remains essential to Europe’s security.

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