U.S. President Donald Trump has once again sparked outrage in Europe after making incendiary comments linking immigration to Europe’s decline, days ahead of high-stakes trade negotiations with the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Speaking to reporters shortly after landing in Scotland for a five-day trip, Trump said:
“You’d better get your act together. You’re not going to have Europe anymore.”
He described immigration as a “horrible invasion,” adding, “Some leaders have not let it happen. They’re not getting the proper credit,” while refusing to name which leaders he meant, claiming he didn’t want to “embarrass” others.
The rhetoric closely mirrors the “Great Replacement” theory often promoted by far-right and extremist groups. The conspiracy claims that European populations are being systematically replaced by migrants, particularly from Africa and the Middle East.
Trade Talks and Tariff Threats
Trump’s remarks come just before scheduled talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with trade at the top of the agenda. Trump has threatened to impose a 30% tariff on EU imports beginning August 1, should negotiations fail.
“If we make a deal with the EU, it would be the biggest deal of them all,” Trump said on Friday.
In response, the EU has prepared retaliatory tariffs in case the U.S. proceeds with the tariff hike. Von der Leyen emphasized that the EU seeks a fair agreement but is united in its readiness to respond.
Wind Energy and Personal Grievances
Trump also targeted renewable energy, repeating long-debunked claims about the negative impacts of wind power:
“Stop the windmills. You’re ruining your countries… and killing your birds.”
Trump has long opposed wind energy, partly due to a legal battle with the Scottish government over a wind farm near his Aberdeenshire golf course, which he claimed destroyed the view. His company lost the case and was ordered to pay legal costs.
During this trip, Trump is scheduled to visit both of his Scottish golf properties, including a new course set to open on August 13.
Controversy Overshadowing Diplomacy?
Trump’s provocative statements risk overshadowing critical economic negotiations. EU leaders are said to be increasingly concerned that the president’s inflammatory tone could derail talks focused on transatlantic trade, digital regulation, and energy cooperation.
This trip comes as Trump seeks to reinforce his “America First” agenda abroad, but critics argue that the president’s rhetoric aligns with dangerous ideologies and damages the U.S.’s diplomatic standing.
With tensions mounting on multiple fronts—from tariffs to immigration to climate policy—Trump’s Europe visit is proving to be as polarizing as it is pivotal.