Following the recent statements by US President Donald Trump about the shift in US foreign policy priorities, tensions between Washington and its European allies have reached a new level. Trump insists that the United States should focus on fighting China, while Europe should finance its own defence. In this situation, China may become the main beneficiary of the split between the US and Europe, Business Insider reports.
In recent years, Beijing has been actively working to weaken the transatlantic alliance using economic leverage. China offers EU countries financial support, investment and favourable trade deals, which may become particularly attractive amid Washington’s demands for increased defence spending.
Europe between the US and China: who will win?
Today, Europe finds itself in a difficult situation. On the one hand, EU countries depend on NATO security guarantees provided by Washington. On the other hand, the Trump administration is demonstrating its readiness to put harsh economic pressure on its allies, in particular by raising tariffs on European goods.
China is trying to take advantage of this tension by offering Europe alternative opportunities. Beijing has significant financial resources and is interested in expanding economic cooperation with the EU. One of China’s main arguments is its willingness to invest in European infrastructure and help EU countries compensate for rising defence spending.
Rebuilding Ukraine: China as an unexpected player
Of particular interest to China is the reconstruction of Ukraine after the war. The World Bank estimates that the country’s full reconstruction will require at least $524 billion over the next decade. Beijing, with its strong construction sector and extensive experience in implementing infrastructure projects, could become one of the main contractors in the reconstruction process.
Before the outbreak of the full-scale war, China was Ukraine’s largest trading partner. Now Beijing can use this cooperation to win lucrative contracts and strengthen its position in the region.
Can China split the West?
Although China is seeking to increase its influence in Europe, its path is not smooth. Beijing faces a number of challenges, including:
- Tensions in relations with the EU. China’s support for Russia in the war against Ukraine has caused sharp dissatisfaction among European leaders.
- China’s economic policy. The EU imposes sanctions on Chinese goods due to dumping and violations of fair competition rules.
- European sanctions. Brussels has already imposed restrictions on Chinese goods, including solar panels and electric cars, which could complicate cooperation.
However, if the United States continues to move away from Europe, Beijing could take advantage of this situation to consolidate its presence in the region.
The split in US-European relations opens up new opportunities for China. Beijing has already demonstrated its willingness to strengthen economic ties with the EU and could play an important role in Ukraine’s post-war recovery.
However, for Europe, the choice between the US and China remains difficult. If Washington does not change its policy, the EU may partially refocus on cooperation with China, which could significantly change the balance of power in the world.
