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European Union responds to Trump, Musk and Vance: “Decisions made by the Union”

An European Union spokesperson responds to Trump’s national security strategy and criticisms from Elon Musk and JD Vance, emphasising that decisions for the EU are made by the Union itself, while highlighting defence and transatlantic trade initiatives

The European Union has responded to recent criticisms from Donald Trump, Elon Musk and JD Vance, stressing that decisions affecting Europe “are made by the European Union, for the European Union,” including those on regulatory autonomy, freedom of speech and the rules-based international order.

An EU Commission spokesperson welcomed the US strategy’s focus on ending the war in Ukraine, underlining that Europe and the United States share the responsibility to support “a just and lasting peace.” The spokesperson also noted the strategy’s attention to developments in the Western Hemisphere, which are crucial for US security.

European Union defence and investment

The spokesperson emphasised that the 27 EU member states agree that “Europe remains strategically and culturally vital for the United States” and that “transatlantic trade remains one of the pillars of the global economy.” In recent years, the European Union has intensified efforts to strengthen defence capabilities and consolidate the defence industrial base. In March 2025, an additional investment package of €800 billion was established to enhance European security and boost critical defence industry capacities.

Transatlantic trade and strategic partnership

The Commission also highlighted the importance of transatlantic trade and investment for both European and US economies, committing to maintain competitiveness and shared growth. “The transatlantic partnership is unique, and as always, allies are stronger together,” concluded the spokesperson, reiterating that “decisions on and for the EU are made by the Union.”

The stance of the European Union is clear: political autonomy, strengthened defence, and strategic cooperation with the United States remain top European priorities.

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