The Monocle Daily Europe’s far-right parties split over Trump. Plus: The Gulf states look to Hollywood
Dec 10, 2025
Guests Rainbow Murray, a politics professor specializing in European affairs, and Quentin Peel, a seasoned journalist on international issues, dive into the complex dynamics of far-right parties in Europe as they navigate Trump’s influence. Murray discusses France’s National Rally's skepticism towards Trump, while Peel underscores Germany’s AfD seeking American support. The conversation also shifts to Gulf states targeting Hollywood for strategic soft power investments, raising questions about cultural influence and ownership in the entertainment industry.
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Trump's Endorsement Is Ambiguous In Europe
- European far-right parties view US endorsement from Trump as a mixed blessing rather than a pure asset.
- Rainbow Murray says French nationalists reject foreign interference and resist Americanisation of France.
AfD Seeks Credibility From Trump
- Germany's AfD welcomes Trump's backing as a boost to credibility and EU-skeptic aims.
- Quentin Peel cautions broad German public dislike of Trump's behaviour may limit any real political payoff.
Europeans See Trump As Unreliable
- Europeans find Trump unreliable and many remember his public insults.
- Rainbow Murray notes views of Trump as friend often reflect hope for continued US-Europe alliance, not fondness for Trump himself.
