Macron cautions against Trump’s ‘anti-European’ agenda

PARIS, FRANCE: Macron said the Trump administration was “openly anti‑European” and seeking the EU’s “dismemberment,” warning that further tensions were likely, particularly over Europe's technology. In an interview with several European newspapers published Tuesday, the French president cautioned that any current lull in friction should not be mistaken for a lasting change in Washington's posture.

He described a state of "minute-by-minute instability" on the American side, calling it profound shock and a rupture for Europeans. He urged EU leaders to treat recent diplomatic friction as a "wake-up call" to strengthen the bloc’s unity and global power.

Digital regulation triggers tariff threats

The French president warned of an imminent clash over Europe's regulation of big tech. “The U.S. will, in the coming months - that’s certain - attack us over digital regulation,” Macron said, pointing to the Digital Services Act as a likely flashpoint. 

He cautioned that President Trump could impose import tariffs as a retaliatory measure if the EU continues its efforts to curb tech companies. He argued that the previous strategy of trying to reach settlements has failed, stating, “what we should do isn’t bow down or try to reach a settlement... It’s not working.”

Challenging the hegemony of dollars

As global markets grow increasingly cautious of the US dollar, Macron argued that Europe should position itself as a credible alternative by issuing common debt. He renewed his call for the 27 nations to engage in joint borrowing to enable large-scale investments that can compete with those of the US and China.

Macron asserted that Europe's democratic institutions remain a major asset for global investors. He claimed this stability is particularly attractive at a time when he believes the United States is “drifting away from the rule of law.” While the EU used joint debt during the 2020 pandemic, making such tools permanent remains a point of contention with Germany.

Confronting the Chinese trade tsunami

In addition to American instability, Macron warned that Europe is facing a "Chinese tsunami" on the trade front. He argued that the EU must become more resilient to survive this double challenge from the world's two largest economies. 

The President is pushing for a “Made in Europe” strategy at this week's summit in Belgium. This plan would set minimum requirements for European content in locally manufactured goods, an approach that has already alarmed some automakers and split opinion among EU member states.

Preference over traditional protectionist policies

Outlining his economic vision, Macron argued that the bloc needs "protection, not protectionism". He characterized this approach as "European preference," designed to bolster the bloc's competitiveness and its ability to stand up to global rivals.

He urged EU leaders to use their upcoming summit to give fresh energy to these reforms. With his second term ending in spring 2027, Macron is framing the agenda as critical to ensuring Europe can operate as a cohesive power on the global stage.