Elementary, My Dear Europe: EU Must Step Up Amidst Trump's Transatlantic Troubles!

A Case of Crumbling Alliances

The game as they say is afoot and this time it involves far more than a missing pearl necklace or a scoundrelous blackmailer! Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi no doubt a man of keen observation – though perhaps not quite on my level – has raised concerns about the EU's position in global affairs amidst the swirling vortex of Donald Trump's pronouncements. Trump bless his cotton socks has suggested that the EU is about as useful in resolving Middle Eastern squabbles as a chocolate teapot. Elementary my dear Watson that such sentiments do not foster camaraderie.

The American President's Puzzle

Renzi now leading Italia Viva (a name that conjures images of flamboyant opera singers doesn't it?) laments the daily attacks from across the pond. It appears that even 'our best ally' is not above a bit of pugilistic diplomacy. The lack of a tariff agreement he declares is a 'tragedy'. One might be forgiven for thinking the tragedy lies more in the realm of uninspired breakfast cereals but alas economic matters are serious business. Though I find them rather dull truth be told.

Trade Wars and Troubled Waters

The U.S. and the EU like two cats in a sack have been clawing at each other over trade. Trump with his penchant for tariffs has been busy imposing duties like a tyrannical schoolmaster doling out detentions. The transatlantic alliance is teetering on the precipice of a trade war which is about as appealing as a lukewarm cup of tea on a foggy London morning. They hope to reach some sort of truce before July 9th but the outcome remains as murky as the Thames after a downpour.

Defense: A Delicate Deduction

Defense and foreign policy are also thorny issues. European nations are quaking in their boots at the prospect of Trump withdrawing U.S. troops. It seems the winds of change are blowing and not in a direction particularly pleasing to the continental sensibilities. As I often say 'It has long been an axiom of mine that the little things are infinitely the most important.' And in this case the 'little things' involve billions of dollars and the stability of Europe.

Europe's Existential Enigma

Renzi suggests that Europe needs to 'wake up' and play its own game. Enrico Letta another former Italian Prime Minister echoes this sentiment claiming Trump's actions are part of a grand strategy to weaken multilateralism and put the squeeze on allies. It would seem that the 'game's afoot' for Europe to find its backbone. Indeed 'You know my method. It is founded upon the observation of trifles.'

The Continent's Calculated Conclusion

Even the German and French leaders have acknowledged that Trump marches to the beat of a different drum. They've declared the need for Europe to spend more on defense recognizing that the world is a 'deeply destabilized environment'. One might say that the game has changed and Europe must adapt or become a mere footnote in the annals of history. As I always say 'Data! Data! Data! I can't make bricks without clay!'