European leaders try to reduce tensions with Trump

Transatlantic tensions. Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, tried to merge cordiality and mild resistance with the Trump government. In Washington, Macron called Trump “dear Donald” several times, seeking to emphasize the shared story between France and the USA, and highlighting progress towards a sustainable and strong peace agreement for Ukraine. However, Macron also countered Trump’s allegations about European financing to Ukraine, stating that Europe has provided “real money.”

He also criticized the threats of tariffs on European consumer goods as counterproductive, questioning how Europe could increase spending safely and defense amid a trade war. Macron’s visit is part of a series of European diplomatic efforts with British Prime Minister Keir Stmermer also meeting with Trump and European Union diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas circulating for Washington. Europe faces the challenge of keeping the US engaged and active, given the critical role of US military and financial support in Ukraine resistance and the importance of the US as a commercial partner.

Ukraine seeks mineral agreement with the US in the midst of concerns with the security. Kiev has signed an agreement with Washington for joint mineral resources, hoping to improve relationships with the Trump administration and pave the way for US long -term security commitment. The agreement would establish a fund to which Ukraine would contribute 50% of the income of the “future monetization” of state mineral resources, including oil and gas, and associated logistics. The fund would invest in projects in Ukraine. Although the agreement does not contain explicit security guarantees, Ukrainian authorities argue that he expands his relationship with the US and reinforces Ukraine’s perspectives after three years of war. The final version of the agreement excludes mineral resources that already contribute to the Ukrainian government coffers.