The shift in American foreign policy under President Trump has alarmed European leaders, resulting in calls for increased defense spending and potential troop deployment to Ukraine. Tensions surfaced during emergency talks led by French President Macron as German Chancellor Scholz expressed irritation over suggestions to send troops. With ongoing discussions highlighting the changing dynamics of NATO and European defense, leaders acknowledged that transatlantic relations have entered a new phase. The rhetoric from key figures suggests a growing divide in shared values, marking a need for Europe to independently strengthen its military capacities.
Trump spoke over the heads of not only Europe but also Ukraine by declaring he was ready to negotiate with Russia to end the three-year war.
The shock switch in policy from the United States has prompted calls for Europe to ramp up its own defence capacities through higher spending.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: 'Everyone at this meeting is aware that transatlantic relations, the NATO alliance and our friendship with the United States have entered a new phase.'
The chairman of the Munich Security Forum Christoph Heusgen expressed concern that 'our common-value base is not that common anymore' after Vance's speech.
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