The Foreign Affairs Interview Are Europe and the United States Finally Heading For Divorce?
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Mar 26, 2026 
Matthias Matthijs, a political scientist who studies European defense and transatlantic ties, and Nathalie Tocci, a foreign-policy expert on European geopolitics, debate Europe’s choices toward U.S. pressure. They discuss Europe’s refusal to join a Strait of Hormuz mission, the impact of Trump-era coercion, Greenland as a rallying point, Europe’s economic leverage, and whether the transatlantic bond is drifting toward separation.
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Spain's Refusal And The Awkward White House Handshake
- Spain refused US use of jointly operated bases after deeming strikes on Iran illegal, creating diplomatic friction.
- Nathalie Tocci recounts Merz's silence beside Trump while Trump lashed out at Spain, later causing tense handshakes at the European Council.
Flattery Has Backfired For Europe
- Evidence over a year shows flattering Trump produced slaps rather than rewards, so standing up often works better.
- Matthias Matthijs points to Spain refusing US base use and Trump's empty threats as proof standing firm can succeed.
Europeans Avoid Direct Military Role In Hormuz
- European states broadly refused to send ships into the Strait of Hormuz while active hostilities continued, forming a NATO-minus-US line.
- Matthias Matthijs notes public unpopularity of the war in Europe and reluctance to take military risks without consultation.