Europe signals “not our war” in response to Trump

European countries are increasingly pushing back against US requests for support in the war with Iran, highlighting growing tensions within the transatlantic alliance as President Donald Trump escalates criticism of traditional partners, the latest piece by Politico says.

Trump on Tuesday accused France of blocking military support to Israel, saying Paris had closed its airspace to relevant flights and calling the move “VERY UNHELPFUL,” while warning: “The U.S.A. will REMEMBER!!!” He also warned European countries affected by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz that they would need to fend for themselves: “You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself… Go get your own oil!”

France rejected the criticism. An official from the Elysée Palace said they were “astonished,” stressing that “France has not changed its position since day one,” maintaining that its bases cannot be used by aircraft involved in the war.

Other European countries have taken similar positions. Spain has refused to allow US use of its bases, with Deputy Prime Minister Carlos Cuerpo stating Madrid would not join “a war which was initiated unilaterally and is against international law.” Switzerland has also imposed flight restrictions.

Even some of Washington’s closest allies are showing caution. Poland has declined to deploy Patriot air defense systems to the Middle East, with Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz saying the country has “no plans,” adding: “Poland’s security is an absolute priority.” Italy, meanwhile, denied US bombers access to its Sigonella base, citing procedural requirements, though Defense Minister Guido Crosetto insisted: “There is no cooling or tension with the U.S.”

The reluctance reflects deeper concerns in Europe, including the lack of consultation by Washington before launching the war and uncertainty over US objectives. “The fact that there is no full clarity on U.S. war aims and that there was little to no consultation before the war matter,” a senior European defense official said.

Analysts say the stance also reflects broader strategic concerns. “The general 'not our war' approach has of course also to do with the U.S. attitude toward Europe,” said Niclas Herbst, adding that Europe is already focused on Russia’s war against Ukraine.

US officials have signaled frustration. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned alliance unity could be at risk: “You don't have much of an alliance if you have countries that are not willing to stand with you when you need them.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio added: “If NATO is just about us defending Europe… then that’s not a very good arrangement.”

By Tamilla Hasanova