European leaders are increasingly concerned that escalating tensions between the United States and Iran may lead President Donald Trump to reconsider American support for Ukraine. According to four European diplomats, there is a growing panic among EU governments that Trump might retaliate against allies who have not backed his actions in the Middle East by withdrawing support for Kyiv.
Reports indicate that Trump has recently intensified his criticism of European nations for their lack of support in the region, suggesting that the future of U.S. involvement in NATO could hinge on their stance regarding Iran.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Moscow has proposed to stop sharing intelligence with Iran in exchange for halting information transfers to Ukraine. Although the U.S. has rejected this offer, the mere existence of such negotiations raises significant concerns.
Diplomats have pointed out that the conflict in Iran is depleting missile and air defense resources crucial for Ukraine’s defense. One diplomat noted, “When you see what Trump did with Greenland and how he unilaterally halted intelligence sharing with Ukraine, there is always a risk that he could cut U.S. support for Ukraine.”
Another diplomat emphasized that the focus on the Middle East is diverting essential resources away from Ukraine. “The Emirates are deploying Patriot missile systems like candy, while Ukraine desperately needs them. We cannot allow a situation where we have to choose between the two,” he added.
In response to these developments, European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, are ramping up efforts to demonstrate solidarity with U.S. actions in the Strait of Hormuz. Rutte publicly commended the U.S. and Israel for their efforts, describing the destruction of Iranian military capabilities as “very important” and directly linking it to European security.
Macron assured Trump in phone conversations that France is ready to assist in unblocking the Strait as soon as possible. Starmer has initiated a joint statement from seven European and allied nations expressing their readiness to contribute to efforts ensuring safe passage through the strait.
One diplomat explained the purpose of this statement: “This is part of the same efforts. We need to show Trump that we are actively engaged in Middle Eastern events. It’s in our interest, but also in Ukraine’s interest.” The diplomat noted that in dealings with Trump, “perception matters—sometimes more than substance.”
The ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran has effectively led Tehran to block the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route through which approximately one-fifth of global oil supplies pass. This blockade has triggered a sharp increase in energy prices.
In this context, Trump has called on EU countries to contribute to efforts to reopen the strait. However, several nations, including France and Germany, have declined to participate. Following this, Trump sharply criticized NATO allies, labeling their stance as “a very stupid mistake,” and indicated a need to reassess the U.S. role in the alliance.
He has also made personal attacks, including remarks directed at British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whom reports suggest he referred to as a “loser.” Additionally, in response to Macron’s refusal to engage in efforts to unblock the Strait, Trump suggested that Macron would soon be out of office.
European leaders are worried that rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran could jeopardize American support for Ukraine. As Trump criticizes EU nations for not backing his Middle Eastern policies, diplomats warn that resources diverted to the region may weaken Ukraine's defense capabilities.