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 announces a trade deal with the EU after a meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen as Warren Stephens, U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom (3rd L), White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller (2nd R), and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt (R) look on at Trump Turnberry golf club 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.