The Big Choice: Western Europe Must Decide Between US Tariffs and Chinese Theft at Scale

The time has come for Western European governments to decide what kind of business and strategic relationships they want for the foreseeable future.

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) announces a trade deal with the European Union after a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (R) in Turnberry, Scotland, on July 27, 2025. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Commentary

Western countries are in a tough spot, especially those in Western Europe. For years, the European Union has tried to balance trade, military, and diplomatic relations with both Washington and Beijing. They welcomed Chinese investment and exports while relying on the United States for defense, finance, and high-tech leadership.