US President Donald Trump has renewed his sharp criticism of Europe, calling the continent “weak” and “decaying” due to immigration policies that, in his view, compromise national security and governance. In an interview with Politico on Tuesday, Trump asserted that European nations should deport individuals who “entered the country illegally,” warning that continued migration could threaten the viability of many European countries.
Trump’s Critique of Europe
Trump argued that Europe’s emphasis on political correctness has weakened its governments. He said:
“Europe, they want to be politically correct, and it makes them weak. Their immigration policy is a disaster.”
The comments follow a recent US National Security Strategy report criticizing European policies and warning of “civilizational erasure” if current trends continue. The report encouraged fostering resistance to Europe’s policy direction within European nations.
Trump has frequently targeted immigrants from African and Muslim-majority countries, alleging that large migration flows erode social cohesion and public safety.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan in Trump’s Crosshairs
Trump specifically singled out London Mayor Sadiq Khan, questioning his leadership and alleging that his election was influenced by immigrant voters. Trump described Khan as “horrible, vicious, disgusting” and claimed his ideology conflicted with traditional governance values.
This is not the first time Trump has attacked Khan. In previous speeches, he suggested that Khan promoted Islamic law in London, invoking controversial conspiracy theories such as the “great replacement” narrative.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly supported Khan but has refrained from directly criticizing Trump.
Europe Under Trump’s Lens
Beyond London, Trump criticized cities such as Paris and countries including Sweden, claiming they have become unsafe due to immigration. He contrasted crime statistics in Europe with the US, noting that although Sweden recorded 92 homicides last year, this figure remains significantly lower than US cities of comparable size, such as Memphis.
Trump also hinted at continued political influence in Europe, suggesting that the US might endorse candidates or parties aligned with his ideology, similar to his support for right-wing politicians in Latin America.
Implications for US-European Relations
Trump’s rhetoric underscores ongoing tensions between the US and European nations over immigration, security, and governance. While some far-right European parties echo Trump’s views, most mainstream political factions in Europe have marginalized them. For instance, Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party remains excluded from governing coalitions across the political spectrum.
Trump also commented on his Hungarian ally, Prime Minister Viktor Orban, noting that Hungary has requested US financial support similar to the $40bn aid package given to Argentina under President Javier Milei, although Trump denied that a deal had been finalized.
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