Mitsotakis: Transatlantic relationship becoming more complicated
The transatlantic relationship is becoming increasingly complex and must be managed differently, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in an interview with Euronews following an EU summit in Brussels.
Mitsotakis said discussions among EU leaders, though lengthy and demanding, reflected a growing sense of purpose about Europe strengthening its strategic autonomy, particularly in defence and competitiveness. He noted that while U.S. President Donald Trump was mentioned during talks, Europe must stand up for its own interests.
He welcomed Trump’s comments aimed at de-escalating tensions over Greenland and said most EU leaders united in support of Denmark and Greenland, with Hungary again taking a different position.
Addressing criticism of the summit by some leaders, Mitsotakis said frank exchanges were possible as discussions were held without advisers or phones. He stressed that disagreements should be handled with respect.
On Gaza, Mitsotakis said Trump’s proposals went beyond the UN Security Council mandate, though U.S. involvement had been crucial in achieving a truce. He added that while most European countries could not join the initiative as presented, Greece would support efforts to ensure a European role in Gaza’s future.
Mitsotakis also defended large trade agreements such as Mercosur, saying Greece, as an open, medium-sized economy and global shipping leader, benefits from free trade and a rules-based international order.
