German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed confidence in Europe’s ability to independently pursue its interests, especially in trade discussions with the United States. After a meeting with EU leaders on Monday, Scholz emphasized the EU’s strength and its capacity to look after its own needs, sending a clear message to the US while maintaining a cooperative stance.
He also praised Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for her skillful handling of trade tensions with the US, particularly in securing relief from President Trump’s threatened tariffs. Scholz called Sheinbaum a “smart politician” for managing the situation effectively.
On the subject of defense, Scholz acknowledged challenges in the EU’s common defense policy, including fragmentation and a lack of unified defense programs. Additionally, he commented on Trump’s recent request for Ukraine to provide rare earths in exchange for US aid, criticizing it as selfish and self-centered, arguing that those resources should be prioritized for Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction.
