President Marcelo accuses Trump of favoring Russia in Ukraine

The remarks were made at the National Palace of Ajuda during a state dinner honoring French President Emmanuel Macron.

President Marcelo speaking at the state dinner | Rui Ochoa via Presidência

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa accused U.S. President Donald Trump of favoring Russia over the European Union in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and undermining the sovereignty of allied nations.

The full speech is available here (in portuguese).

The remarks were made at the National Palace of Ajuda during a state dinner honoring French President Emmanuel Macron, last Thursday.

President Marcelo criticized Trump for what he described as a radical departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy, accusing him of aligning more closely with Russian interests at the expense of European unity.

“Donald Trump broke with the direction set by his predecessor (Joe Biden) and with the entire foreign policy established since World War II,” Marcelo stated.

He further alleged that Trump had “questioned the sovereignty of Canada, a NATO ally, and by extension, the King of the United Kingdom,” as well as the administration of Denmark, another NATO member, particularly in relation to Greenland.

Marcelo also took issue with Trump’s approach to the war in Ukraine, accusing him of undermining Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy and suggesting conditions for peace that align with Russian interests.

“He has mixed attacks on the Ukrainian president with Russian conditions for an agreement, while rejecting Ukraine’s future NATO membership and even challenging internationally recognized borders,” Marcelo said.

The Portuguese leader expressed concern over Trump’s apparent disregard for European involvement in peace negotiations and his hints at reducing U.S. support for European security post-conflict.

“The United States seems to have decided to favor the Russian Federation and its allies in the current situation in Ukraine, to the detriment of the European Union,” Marcelo concluded.

Macron Warns Europe is “Threatened from All Sides”

Echoing Marcelo’s concerns, French President Emmanuel Macron warned that Europe is “threatened from all sides” and called for a united effort to strengthen the continent's defense and security.

“Europeans must ensure that their defense becomes a duty, a requirement, and an opportunity,” Macron said.

He emphasized the need for European leaders to act decisively to protect democratic values and maintain security in the face of growing challenges.

Macron praised Marcelo’s speech, describing it as a masterful analysis of international politics.

“The Portuguese President, with his talent, delivered a speech on general and international politics. I fully endorse everything he said,” Macron remarked.

He also highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between France and Portugal, noting that their shared values and democratic principles are the foundation of a prosperous and united Europe.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

During his visit, Macron also celebrated the strengthening of bilateral ties between France and Portugal.

He announced the signing of a new agreement and treaty with the Portuguese government, set to take place on Friday in Porto.

This marks the first state visit by a French president to Portugal in 26 years.

Reflecting on the historical connections between the two nations, Macron referenced the Portuguese Carnation Revolution of 1974, which he described as a moment of courage and clarity that inspired the world.

He also paid tribute to shared cultural figures, such as poet Luís de Camões, whose birthday is celebrated as Portugal's national day.

In closing, Macron quoted French poet Victor Hugo, saying, “You, the Portuguese, have not ceased to be navigators and interpreters. Today, we navigate in truth.”

The speeches by both leaders underscored the growing concerns among European nations about the shifting dynamics of global power and the need for unity in the face of external threats.

As the war in Ukraine continues, the call for a stronger, more cohesive Europe has never been more urgent.