Von der Leyen pushes back at Trump: “Do not interfere”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in an interview with Politico that the United States should not interfere in Europe’s elections or political direction. Her remarks followed Washington’s new National Security Strategy, which warns of a potential “civilisational decline” in Europe and criticises EU policy toward far-right parties.

Von der Leyen stressed that choosing national leaders is solely the decision of voters: “This is the sovereignty of the electorate, and it must be protected. No one should interfere.”

She said she has always maintained “very good working relations” with U.S. presidents but noted that Europe should focus on its own priorities rather than comparing itself to others. Von der Leyen added that U.S.–EU relations are evolving as the European Union itself undergoes change.