EU Bashes Trump To Kick Off Western Balkan Summit, Declares Support For Iran Deal

“With friends like that who needs enemies?” European Council President Donald Tusk said while criticizing U.S. President Donald Trump.

May 16, 2018

By JOSH FRIEDMAN

SOFIA, Bulgaria - In his first public appearance at the site of the EU Western Balkan Summit in Sofia, European Council President Donald Tusk focused his attention not on the Balkans, but rather on U.S. President Donald Trump, for whom he delivered harsh words over Trump's recent moves on trade and Iran. While taking jabs at Trump, Tusk announced that despite the U.S.'s withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal, Europe must do its part to maintain the agreement.

After discussing traditional political foes China and Russia, Tusk said Europe is faced with a new phenomenon: "the capricious assertiveness of the American administration.” Tusk carried on, taking jabs directly at Trump.

“Looking at the latest decisions of President Trump, someone could even think with friends like that who needs enemies? But frankly speaking, Europe should be grateful by President Trump because thanks to him we have got rid of all illusions. He has made us realize that if you need a helping hand you will find one at the end of your arm,” Tusk said.

On the deal between world powers and Iran on curbing Tehran's nuclear program, Tusk said he wants European leaders to confirm the EU will stick to the agreement so long as Iran does.

"We need a United European front," Tusk said. “The deal is good for EU and global security, which is why we must maintain it.”

Tusk likewise criticized Trump's recent decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to the U.S. Tusk said the national security justification for the tariffs is "absurd," and the EU will apply for exemptions from the tariffs.

“My objective is simple. We stick to our guns,” Tusk said about Europe's approach to trade.

The European Council president also said he aims to protect European companies in the case they face sanctions from the U.S. for doing business with Iran.

While speaking briefly about the Western Balkans, Tusk said he hopes to bring the region closer to the EU.

WANT A PRIMER ON THE EU WESTERN BALKAN SUMMIT? READ MY STEEMIT POST FROM EARLIER TODAY

The formal Western Balkan summit will take place Thursday. EU and Western Balkan leaders are expected to reach some type of deal or deals, likely relating to infrastructure development, by Thursday afternoon.

While all Western Balkan states are currently trying to join the EU (if they are not already in the bloc), Brussels is faced with China, Russia and Turkey also competing for influence in the region. Speaking to international press, Tusk said there will be a global dimension to everything discussed at the summit.

Europe will either be a major player or a pawn on the world stage, Tusk said.