EU's Kallas says U.S. Aims to Divide Europe Amid Rising Tensions

By Global Leaders Insights Team | Mar 13, 2026

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has accused the United States of attempting to divide Europe, warning that the European Union must remain united in its dealings with Washington as transatlantic tensions between the partners continue to grow.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Kallas said Washington’s approach toward Europe has been clear. “The U.S. has been very clear that they want to divide Europe. They don’t like the European Union,” she said, urging EU member states not to engage the United States individually but to act collectively.

Her remarks come during Donald Trump’s second term, which has seen disagreements between the United States and the European Union on trade, defence and broader geopolitical issues. Observers say these disputes have strained relations that have long defined the transatlantic alliance.

  • EU foreign policy chief warns U.S. seeks to divide Europe
  • Kaja Kallas urges EU unity amid transatlantic tensions
  • Brussels debates strategic autonomy from Washington

Kallas stressed that a unified European position would strengthen the EU’s ability to deal with Washington. According to her, the bloc carries more influence when it acts together rather than when individual member states pursue separate bilateral engagements with the United States.

Recent developments have added to the tensions, including U.S. trade investigations and the possibility of new tariffs on European goods. These steps have raised concerns in Brussels that Washington’s policies could deepen divisions within the EU if member states attempt to negotiate separately.

Despite the criticism, Kallas acknowledged that Europe still relies heavily on American defence support. She noted that many European countries depend on U.S. military equipment and security guarantees, underlining the need for Europe to strengthen its own defence capabilities and industry in the coming years.

The EU’s top diplomat also stressed that European unity will be critical as the bloc navigates a shifting geopolitical environment marked by conflicts, trade disputes and changing alliances. Strengthening European defence cooperation and strategic autonomy, she said, will be essential for protecting the bloc’s interests.

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Kallas’ remarks reflect a broader debate within Europe over how to manage its partnership with the United States while developing greater independence in foreign policy and security decisions.