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He also accused the U.S. President of undermining U.S. allies.
He also accused the U.S. President of undermining U.S. allies.
What is happening?
In a bold and unexpected move, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa launched a scathing critique of Donald Trump on Wednesday.
Speaking at a youth political event, he accused the U.S. president of acting as a de facto asset to Russia in the ongoing Ukraine conflict—remarks that have sparked widespread attention.
Surprise appearance at summer political forum
Originally slated to speak via video, Rebelo de Sousa surprised attendees by showing up in person at the Social Democratic Party’s Summer University in Castelo de Vide.
The event, which trains young political hopefuls, became the stage for his most candid comments on international affairs to date.
“Trump acts as a Russian asset”
In a stark accusation, the Portuguese president stated, “Objectively speaking, the supreme leader of the world’s most important superpower is… an asset of the Soviet Union or Russia.”
He clarified that while no formal alliance exists, Trump’s actions consistently benefit the Kremlin.
Emotional leadership and changing power dynamics
Rebelo de Sousa framed Trump’s political style as part of a global shift—one where leaders bypass traditional media and appeal directly to public emotion.
He warned that this model alters how power is distributed and perceived, especially in global crises like the war in Ukraine.
U.S. behavior undermines allies
According to Rebelo de Sousa, the Trump administration’s approach to Ukraine has been strategically advantageous for Russia.
He suggested that the U.S. under Trump has effectively moved from backing Ukraine to acting as an “arbiter”—but one negotiating only with Moscow.
Exclusion of Ukraine and Europe in peace talks
The president raised concerns that the Trump-led U.S. seeks to engage Russia directly, sidelining both Ukraine and the European Union.
“They have to impose themselves to participate,” he warned, calling the current negotiation structure unbalanced and damaging.
Empty threats toward Moscow?
Rebelo de Sousa also criticized the lack of follow-through on U.S. threats against Russia.
He referenced “daily terrible threats” of sanctions that have yet to materialize, implying a pattern of rhetoric without substance under Trump’s leadership.
Playing referee—but only for one side
The Portuguese leader likened Trump to a biased referee in the Ukraine crisis—claiming to mediate, yet engaging only one team.
This approach, he said, forces Ukraine and its European allies to fight for their place at the negotiation table.
A strategic win for the Kremlin?
Rebelo de Sousa’s overarching message was clear: Trump’s actions, intentional or not, have played directly into Moscow’s hands.
He argued that the shift in U.S. strategy under Trump represents a geopolitical win for Russia.
Harsh words from a NATO ally
As a NATO member and EU state, Portugal’s head of state delivering such strong criticism of a U.S. president is highly unusual.
His words underscore growing anxiety in Europe about the future role of the U.S. in global conflicts should Trump return to power.
