Europe’s anger at Trump over Russia fails to break US ties

President Donald Trump's overtures to Vladimir Putin have deepened the transatlantic rift over Russia's war in Ukraine, yet European leaders remain unwilling to break with the US despite widespread outrage. Over two weeks, Trump struck a diesel deal with Russia, eased sanctions, called for new Ukrainian elections, and dismissed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's legitimacy. Zelenskyy denounced the deal as a "historic mistake," while European leaders like Emmanuel Macron and Giorgia Meloni criticized the moves, with EU official Kaja Kallas accusing Washington of pushing Ukraine toward surrender. Europe still prioritizes preserving a channel with Washington, participating in US-led peace talks despite limited influence. Officials argue cooperation remains essential for Ukraine, though some acknowledge fundamental strategic divergences, questioning whether Europe can sustain independent sanctions without US participation.