German Chancellor Olaf Scholz underscored Europe’s capacity to look after its own interests in trade negotiations with the United States on Monday after meeting with fellow EU leaders.
“The European Union is strong. We have every opportunity to make sure we can look after our own interests,” Scholz stated, sending a clear message to the US while maintaining the connection with Washington. Scholz’s remarks came amid ongoing global discussions about economic strategies and trade agreements.
Scholz also commended Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for the manner in which she handled US President Donald Trump’s threatened tariffs. “The Mexican president is a smart politician,” he said, commenting on her being able to skillfully navigate through the political situation.
Scholz recognized the European Union’s current defense policy as being fragmented, with no consolidated defense programs, and urged for reform in EU defense procurement strategy to bring it more together.
In response to President Trump’s recent demand for Ukraine to provide rare earth minerals in exchange for US aid, Scholz criticized the suggestion, saying it was “selfish” and “self-centred.” He argued that these vital resources should be allocated to the reconstruction of Ukraine post-war, rather than being used to fulfill external demands.
Scholz’s comments reflect the EU’s growing confidence in asserting its role on the world stage, especially in trade, defense, and global diplomacy.