EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Tuesday said US President Donald Trump’s policies are bringing “historic” changes, compelling the European Union to “play a very active role” in shaping a new world order.
Speaking to the German newspaper Die Zeit, von der Leyen stated that “the West as we knew it no longer exists,” noting that while she has always been a “convinced Atlanticist” and a “great friend of the US,” the current crisis in transatlantic relations and shifting geopolitical dynamics demand a strategic response from the EU.
She cited the growing rivalry between the US and China, as well as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s expansionist ambitions, as key factors disrupting the global balance. “That is why we need another, new EU that is ready to go out into the big wide world and play a very active role in shaping this new world order that is coming,” she said.
Von der Leyen also pointed out that Trump’s confrontational trade stance has, in some ways, worked in the EU’s favor. The bloc’s reliability and predictability have increased its appeal globally. She mentioned growing interest from countries like Canada, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Mexico, and various South American nations seeking closer ties with Europe.
While acknowledging that trade with the US still makes up 13% of global commerce, von der Leyen highlighted that 87% occurs with other nations. “Everyone is asking for more trade with Europe – and it’s not just about economic ties. It is also about establishing common rules and predictability. Europe is known for its predictability and reliability, which is once again starting to be seen as something very valuable,” she concluded.
