Why Europe Cannot Stay Silent
What do you do when you discover that your best friend is abusive to their partner at home? That difficult question mirrors a pressing dilemma for Europe as we witness Donald Trump's systematic dismantling of American democracy.
The Cost of Silence
For nine long months, European leaders have tiptoed around Trump, engaging in flattery and appeasement, all while ignoring his disturbingly erratic claims and actions. As European leaders prioritize national security and appeasement over accountability, one must question: what is the real cost of this silence?
“No European leader has publicly contradicted Trump's inflated claims to have ended eight wars in eight months.”
The Danger of Inaction
Appeasement seems to be the strategy, as leaders remain quiet on Trump's inflation of self-importance and disregard for international norms. Behind closed doors, they tacitly support unrealistic defense spending targets and unbalanced trade terms, raising the question: what do they gain? Their alignment with a leader undermining the very fabric of democracy poses risks not just for the U.S., but for Europe itself.
The Dangers at Home
While millions of Americans take to the streets to challenge Trump's authoritarian behavior, I urge European leaders to take a stand. The time has come for them to assert their moral autonomy and express support for those defending democracy in the U.S. and the values we hold dear.
A Shared Responsibility
Expressing dismay may not save the U.S. political system from erosion, yet it is crucial for the very survival of liberal democracy in Europe that leaders recognize and oppose threats when they arise, especially from our closest ally.
Recognizing the Ripple Effect
The current political conflicts in the U.S. are likely precursors to similar movements in Europe. Just as social movements such as #MeToo and various cultural shifts flowed from the U.S. to Europe, the increasing tide of repression is rolling onto European soil, evident in Hungary and Serbia.
Mobilizing for Change
If influential figures like Elon Musk can sway elections and intensify political divides, surely we too can amplify our voices against regression and repression. European cooperation with progressive movements in the U.S. can foster an environment of shared values and support.
Conclusion: The Call to Action
In closing, I urge European leaders to embrace their duty to protect democracy, not only within Europe's borders but also across the Atlantic. It's the moral obligation of democratic leaders to ensure that what happens in the U.S. never becomes our norm.
Source reference: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/oct/28/europe-donald-trump-democracy-us
