Inauguration of Donald Trump: Europe Must Stand Up for Its Values and Interests

Ahead of Donald Trump’s inauguration, Renew Europe calls on European leaders to unite and defend European interests and values. The decades-long transatlantic alliance has brought prosperity and security, and it must be cherished. As key allies, we expect and hope that our American friends will be as convinced as us that a strong EU-US relationship, including support for NATO, is a reciprocal added value on both sides of the Atlantic.

Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said:

“The transatlantic alliance is powerful, precious, and should be nurtured, not undermined. A wasteful trade war or diplomatic disputes will only benefit Beijing and Moscow. Europeans must do their share and show clear ambition to take real leadership, by boosting defense capabilities and raising their voices to defend Europe. The new US administration may interpret a failure to do this as weakness or compliance. We warn explicitly about the realistic danger of a new era of total disruption regarding rule of law, global order and a hidden anti-democratic agenda, driven by Donald Trump. Europe must not tolerate that, our readiness will be our force."

Sophie Wilmès MEP, Vice-Chair of the Delegation for relations with the United States, added:

"The United States is our ally, our historical partner. Our special relationship with the Americans must endure through time and challenges, as it has so far. It is true that friendships are also built on frank, straightforward discussions. We Europeans must be united, strong in our core principles, and autonomous. Only in this way can the relationship be balanced. And when Renew Europe speaks of working on economic security or defending our strategic interests in Europe, for example, it is precisely with this goal in mind."