Staff Reports
The recent events in Europe suggest that a lesson straight out of the Trump playbook might be just what the continent needs to salvage its cohesion and common sense. Amid the chaos of political correctness and globalist agendas, it seems the leaders across the pond might finally recognize that prosperity without a strong national identity is about as useful as a screen door on a submarine.
For years, many European nations have prioritized keeping up appearances on the international stage, forgetting that a nation’s strength begins at home. Trump’s bold, unapologetic stance on nationalism and prioritization of American interests served as a wake-up call—a wake-up call that’s ringing loud enough for some European leaders to hear. Instead of relying solely on economic indicators, these leaders may want to consider that their countries require something deeper than a rising GDP. The notion that prosperity alone will sustain societal harmony deserves to be filed away next to the flimsy concepts of socialism that have plagued so many parts of Europe.
As Europe grapples with an array of crises—from immigration to economic instability—its leaders are faced with a crucial choice: embrace a return to strong national identities or continue down the path of fragmented societies. Nations need strong leaders who prioritize the interests and values of their citizens, much like Trump did for America. When leaders fail their people by focusing on lofty ideals rather than tangible results, the ensuing fallout can be disastrous. History has shown that lost cohesion can lead to rising extremism and social unrest. Just look at what has happened in many European cities, where radical politics have begun to take root in the vacuum of a lack of national pride.
Learning from Trump’s approach might mean setting aside elitist attitudes that often come with being part of the European Union. Instead of trying to fit into a one-size-fits-all mold handed down from bureaucrats in Brussels, countries might benefit from re-establishing their unique identities. After all, France doesn’t need to be like Germany, and Italy certainly shouldn’t be forced to emulate Spain. Europe’s rich tapestry of cultures and traditions is what makes it special; it’s time for its leaders to embrace those differences rather than undermine them through excessive homogenization.
Trump is shaking Europe from slumber https://t.co/mmYbSKJFvL pic.twitter.com/RufQdVIlDz
— NY Post Opinion (@NYPostOpinion) February 24, 2025
Moreover, the idea that prosperity should be equated with good governance is quickly crumbling. Just because a country has money flowing in doesn’t mean its people are happy or united. European leaders would do well to remember that Trump didn’t just focus on dollars and cents; he encouraged a sense of belonging and community. As the lessons of national cohesion echo louder, it becomes clear that countries must look inward, reinforcing their values and identities to build a stronger foundation for the future.
If Europe’s leaders have the courage to learn from this, they might just find that the secret sauce to a thriving nation is not merely wealth, but a robust sense of national pride and unity. Prosperity might pay the bills, but a cohesive identity ensures that a nation can weather any storm—financial or otherwise. With a little dose of Trump-style common sense, Europe could emerge more united and stronger than ever.
