Critical uncertainties lingered after Europe’s initial encounter with the assertive Trump administration, particularly regarding the future of Ukraine. However, one aspect was evident: a significant rift appears to be forming within the Western alliance.

Following three years of conflict that fostered newfound solidarity in NATO, the Trump administration signaled a pivot toward other regions, including Asia, Latin America, and the Arctic, as well as seeking vital mineral rights that the U.S. can capitalize on.

European officials who attended a meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed concerns that tens of thousands of American troops might be withdrawn from Europe, leaving the primary questions focused on how many would leave and the speed of their withdrawal.

There are worries that President Trump may engage in negotiations with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia that could ultimately result in Russia gaining control over a significant portion of Ukraine. European leaders fear this could set the stage for a future attempt by Moscow to further undermine the NATO alliance.

These anxieties were voiced at the Munich Security Conference, where President Volodymyr Zelensky declared, “Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs.” He optimistically proposed the formation of a united “army of Europe” that would include the battle-tested Ukrainian forces, effectively suggesting an alternative military coalition that could operate independently of U.S. influence.

Zelensky warned that Putin would likely seek to manipulate Trump, suggesting the Russian leader might invite the new U.S. president to celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany. He cautioned that “Putin will try to position the U.S. president in Red Square on May 9 this year—not as a respected leader but as a prop in his own spectacle,” as he addressed a packed audience of European diplomats, defense, and intelligence officials.