The Latest Breaking News from Ian Lesser

US allies apprehensive after capricious Trump changes tune at Nato summit

Sudden shift may be linked to affinity for Erdoğan but erratic behavior towards alliance may have consequences

The Guardian - US · Jul 12

Podcast | US Independence party in Brussels: Controversial celebration or diplomatic success?

A majestic celebration of the US Independence anniversary in the heart of Brussels' European Quarter, alongside talks to end the war in Iran have sparked reflection on EU–US relations.

Euronews · Jul 3

Ceasefire offers Trump exit as Iran war becomes political liability

The ceasefire deal with Iran might come at the right moment for Donald Trump, as it could stop the erosion of domestic support for the President. But Trump is left facing scrutiny over why and for what did the US get into war.

Euronews · Apr 8

Will Trump really pull US troops out of Europe?

US president Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to withdraw US forces from Europe as part of his "America First" policy.  It would have enormous strategic consequences and would likely run into considerable domestic resistance. It's not clear whether Trump is willing to pay the political price.

Euronews · Jun 25, 2025

Happy birthday to me! Trump's mega-MAGA birthday military parade raises eyebrows

Plans to combine celebrations for the US Army's 250th anniversary with the US president's birthday with a military parade through the centre of Washington DC are raising eyebrows and the hackles of local politicians, who fear for the price tag and damage involved.

Euronews · May 22, 2025

Europe Shifts Gears For The Trump Era

Barely a month ago, a phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin sent an unmistakable message across the Atlantic: the United States may not be there forever to keep Europe safe from an aggressive Russia.

International Business Times · Mar 20, 2025

Facing Trump And Putin, Are The EU's Defence Plans Enough?

Faced by a menacing Russia and unreliable United States, the EU is pushing a mammoth plan to boost its defences that Brussels says could unlock up to 800 billion euros ($860 billion).

International Business Times · Mar 11, 2025

Wary Europe Eyes Syria With Hope -- And Fear

European leaders have hailed the end of Bashar al-Assad's brutal rule in Syria as a moment of hope -- but they also view his sudden toppling as fraught with dangers.

International Business Times · Dec 9, 2024

Loyalty the key as impulsive Trump picks team for America First agenda

President-elect’s team has China hawks, an alleged Assad defender and a Fox News host – all have been vocally loyal

The Guardian - US · Nov 13, 2024

Europe Seeks Footing As Trump Storms Back To Power

European leaders converge on Budapest Thursday for two days of high-level talks that will seek to rise to the challenges posed by Donald Trump's return to the White House -- but also risk exposing the continent's fault lines.

International Business Times · Nov 7, 2024