Here's Why Here's Why Europe's Far Right Is Rethinking Trump Ties
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Jan 23, 2026 Ben Sills, Managing Editor for European Economics and Government at Bloomberg, offers insights into the evolving dynamics of Europe’s far-right and their ties to Donald Trump. The discussion reveals how European leaders are distancing themselves from Trump, particularly after his controversial comments on Greenland. Sills highlights the risks for politicians like Italy's Giorgia Meloni in criticizing Trump, while also exploring how opposition parties balance domestic sentiment with their relationship to him. Can this pivot signal a lasting change in the transatlantic alliance?
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Sovereignty Beats Ideological Kinship
- Nationalist leaders in Europe prioritise their country's sovereignty over ideological alignment with Trump.
- Trump's Greenland comments directly conflicted with European patriotism and forced public distancing.
Which European Leaders Moved Closer To Trump
- Giorgia Meloni, Marine Le Pen and Alice Weidel are key European figures linked to Trumpist networks.
- Meloni and Weidel have actively benefited from ties, while Le Pen balances sympathy with French scepticism.
Carefully Criticize To Avoid Retaliation
- Calibrate public criticism to avoid provoking trade retaliation from the US.
- Speak to voters' concerns but avoid actions that invite tariffs or direct White House attention.