Brussels – “The European Union is primarily and essentially a peace project,” also awarded the Nobel Prize. Roberta Metsola sets the record straight. The President of the European Parliament wants to respond to the President of the United States, Donald Trump, who accused the EU of existing based on intentions contrary to American interests. Metsola chooses to respond from Washington, during her visit to the US, where she was invited to give a speech at the Johns Hopkins University. Here, politely but firmly, she reminds the American public that the version offered by the White House tenant needs clarification.
“Peace is the essence of the European Union,” Metsola insists. Translated: the EU was not created to be an adversary of the United States. If anything, she continues, it was created to follow up on those relations carved in time and beyond: “The history of EU-US relations is written in the sacrifice of those who gave their lives against tyranny.” A reference to the world conflicts of the 20th century, but also an implicit reference to today’s conflicts, particularly the ongoing one in Ukraine initiated by Russian military operations.
“Security depends on trans-Atlantic relations, which go beyond industry, beyond trade, and beyond immediate political considerations,” Metsola continues, with a veiled criticism of intentions to impose tariffs on European goods. “In trade wars, no one wins,” said the MEP chairwoman, who adds another after the due clarification on the nature of the EU: “Europe will respond firmly. We don’t want to, but we are ready.”
English version by the Translation Service of Withub