Manfred Weber, president of the European People's Party (EPP), no longer considers the United States as the stabilizing world force that it was in the past.
In an exclusive interview with Euronews, he expressed his concern about what he described as a “disturbing and erratic behavior” during the first Trump administration, which is now 100 days after his work reviving the world order.
“In a world where America is no longer stable anchor and does not give this kind of orientation, Europe is even more requested to do so. And again, the largest party in Europe must provide Europe with this reflection and this content exactly,” Weber said.
The gap between Europe and the United States was full and shocking when Vice-President JD Vance addressed the Munich Security Conference in February. In his remarks, he accused the EU of having smothered freedom of expression and promised a different approach.
“Under the direction of Donald Trump, we may disagree with your opinions, but we will defend your right to offer it in the public square – okay or in disagreement,” said Vance.
Weber was not disagreeing, defending the European limits of hate speech and disinformation.
“We do not follow the consideration of Vice-President Vance that everything is authorized,” he told Euronews. “No, in Europe, everything is not allowed. You cannot lie, you cannot say hate speeches there. You cannot be anti-Semitic in today's world in Europe.”
European lifestyle
Weber stressed the importance of defining a distinct European identity, free from external influence – whether in the United States, China or Russia.
“This implementation of our rules makes us sure of us that we believe in European lifestyle, without following the Americans, the Chinese or the Russian approach.”
Despite the defense of Washington's strategic distance, Weber stressed the continuous importance of defense cooperation and the need for Europe to strengthen its role on the world scene.
“Where we still need more commitment, it is the side of the defense and the future policies of external affairs, and it is the task that awaits us.”
Weber was re -elected for a second term as president of the EPP at the Valence Congress, winning 502 out of 563 valid votes.
