Donald Trump Had European Journalists Rolling in the Aisles (And Not in a Good Way) – These 9 Responses Nailed It Best
Donald Trump has long been a polarizing figure on the global stage, but few audiences are as openly critical—and hilariously scathing—as European journalists. From baffling press conferences to eyebrow-raising diplomatic moments, Trump’s interactions with the European press have often been met with a mix of disbelief, satire, and razor-sharp wit.
Here are nine of the best European media responses to Trump’s most head-scratching moments, showcasing why he left so many journalists laughing (or groaning) in disbelief.
1. “Trump’s NATO Speech: A Masterclass in Confusion” – Der Spiegel (Germany)
When Trump claimed that NATO was “obsolete” before later flip-flopping, German outlet Der Spiegel didn’t hold back:
“Trump’s understanding of NATO seems to change faster than the weather in Berlin. One day it’s ‘obsolete,’ the next it’s ‘stronger than ever’—perhaps depending on who he spoke to last.”
European journalists noted that Trump’s inconsistent messaging left allies questioning whether U.S. commitments could be trusted.
2. “Trump Meets the Queen: A Surreal Royal Encounter” – The Guardian (UK)
Trump’s 2018 visit to the UK included an awkward meeting with Queen Elizabeth II, where he broke royal protocol by walking in front of her. The Guardian quipped:
“In Trump’s world, there is only one monarch—and her name is Trump.”
British commentators also roasted Trump for claiming he had “turned down” a state banquet (which was never offered) and for his bizarre remark that the Queen had “never had to wait for anyone” until he arrived.
3. “Trump’s ‘Alternative’ Swedish Reality” – Dagens Nyheter (Sweden)
After Trump falsely claimed that Sweden had suffered a terror attack following immigration policies, Sweden’s largest newspaper responded with dry humor:
“We checked. No explosions. No riots. Just another normal Saturday night in Stockholm. But thanks for the concern, Mr. President.”
The incident became a running joke in Sweden, with late-night shows mocking Trump’s habit of inventing facts.
4. “Trump vs. Macron: A Bromance Gone Sour” – Le Monde (France)
Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron started as allies, but their relationship deteriorated into public spats. When Trump mocked Macron’s approval ratings, Le Monde fired back:
“Trump giving advice on popularity is like a sinking ship offering navigation tips.”
French media also ridiculed Trump’s claim that he knew Paris “better than any American” despite his limited visits.
5. “Trump’s ‘Very Stable Genius’ Moment” – The Irish Times (Ireland)
After Trump declared himself a “very stable genius,” The Irish Times sarcastically applauded:
“Finally, a humble man who doesn’t boast about his intellect. Oh wait…”
European journalists frequently mocked Trump’s self-aggrandizing statements, contrasting them with his verbal slip-ups.
6. “Trump’s Climate Science Lesson… from a Sharpie” – El País (Spain)
When Trump infamously used a Sharpie to alter a hurricane map to justify a false claim, Spain’s El País joked:
“Next, he’ll redraw the map of Europe—perhaps moving Germany next to Mexico for efficiency.”
The incident became a symbol of Trump’s loose relationship with facts.
7. “Trump’s ‘Fine-Tuned Machine’ Pandemic Response” – La Repubblica (Italy)
As COVID-19 spread, Trump called the U.S. response “perfect.” Italy’s La Repubblica, which had covered its own devastating outbreak, responded:
“A ‘perfect’ response? Yes, if the goal was chaos.”
European journalists were stunned by Trump’s downplaying of the virus, especially as their own countries implemented strict measures.
8. “Trump’s ‘Very Good Brain’ Meets the Oxford Union” – BBC (UK)
When Trump bragged about acing a cognitive test, the BBC deadpanned:
“Remembering ‘person, woman, man, camera, TV’ is impressive. Maybe next he’ll tackle ‘cat, dog, house, tree’—truly the stuff of Nobel Prizes.”
British media often highlighted Trump’s simplistic language and exaggerated claims.
9. “The Helsinki Summit: Trump’s Putin Love-In” – Helsingin Sanomat (Finland)
After Trump sided with Putin over U.S. intelligence on Russian interference, Finland’s leading paper wrote:
“In Helsinki, Trump proved one thing: He’s the best Russian president America ever had.”
European outlets widely condemned Trump’s reluctance to criticize Putin.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Laughter (and Facepalms)
Trump’s presidency was a goldmine for European satire, with journalists using humor to underscore his unpredictability, factual inaccuracies, and diplomatic blunders. While some laughed, others saw deeper concerns about U.S. credibility.
One thing’s certain: No other American leader has generated such a mix of disbelief and punchlines abroad.
Final Thought: Will Trump’s 2024 campaign give European journalists fresh material? If history’s any guide—absolutely.
