Jean-Claude Juncker, former President of the European Commission, recommends European leaders not to fear Donald Trump and to treat him with the same coin he treats the world.
In an interview for the Greek publication Kathimerini, he reproaches European leaders for behaving like „dwarfs” in front of an American president who ignores international agreements and prefers bilateral relations with Russia.
The former President of the Commission believes it is essential for Europe to strengthen its common defense in order not to become vulnerable and to learn from past mistakes regarding solidarity among member states.
Juncker: Some see us as "payers," but we are players
Juncker draws attention to a "growing international disorder" and highlights Europe's difficulty in finding its place in a world dominated by the United States and Russia. Although the EU is often seen as a "payer" in this global context, Juncker is firm: "We are players, not just payers."
“We observe, I would say, a growing international disorder, which is not something new, but has now worsened. It is also difficult for the European Union to find its place, but it must play its role.
Some see us as "payers," but we are players. The news we are living is that our natural ally, the USA, is turning its back on us and now supports what is now our enemy, Russia. They prioritize their relationship with Russia and blatantly ignore the EU.
And I think the reason is that we behave like dwarfs, although we are not. We are, of course, not giants in many respects. However, we are a partner that must be taken seriously. And regarding Ukraine, if we are not at the negotiating table, we will be on the menu," Juncker said to Kathimerini.
Trump and the EU: A difficult relationship
Juncker criticizes the US attitude towards the European Union, especially under the leadership of Donald Trump, who, in his view, does not respect international agreements and prefers bilateral relations with Russia.
“Trump doesn't listen to anyone to change his arguments,” Juncker asserts. He suggests that European leaders must adopt a firm approach.
“Trump doesn't listen to anyone to change his arguments. If you want to be considered, you have to treat him with respect. He was elected president by Americans, not by Europeans. He's not stupid.
However, he doesn't take into account international agreements, but ignores them," Juncker added and continued:
“I would treat him as I did when I was President of the Commission, I wouldn't hide. This is the right way to deal with Trump. The tactic is not to be afraid of him, not to hide, and to behave in the same way he does with us”
Regarding the conflict in Ukraine, the former head of the European Commission believes that Europe must play a central role.
“The war is taking place in Europe, we must talk to Europeans,” Juncker emphasizes. Therefore, the Union must assert itself in negotiations with Russia and the United States, without allowing external powers to decide the fate of the continent.
D.D.