Trump says Europe is being eaten alive as energy crisis deepens

Friday 02 - 10:21

By: Azzat Manal

Trump says Europe is being eaten alive as energy crisis deepens

US President Donald Trump said Europe was being “eaten alive” by mounting problems during a speech in Texas, using an ambiguous phrase as the continent faces renewed pressure from soaring energy and fuel prices.

“Look at what’s happened to Europe. They’re being eaten alive,” Trump said during remarks to supporters in Texas. He did not specify what he meant by the statement, leaving its precise target unclear.

Trump has repeatedly criticized European governments over immigration and energy policy. In previous remarks, he has argued that illegal immigration and high energy costs are placing severe pressure on European societies and economies, while presenting US border and energy policies as an alternative.

His latest comments come as European households and businesses confront sharply higher fuel costs. The European Commission's latest Weekly Oil Bulletin showed the average diesel price across the European Union reaching a record €2.24 per litre on October 1. Twelve EU member states recorded new all-time highs, while diesel prices exceeded €2.50 per litre in Denmark, the Netherlands and Finland.

The increase has been linked to disruptions affecting global energy supplies, including tensions in the Middle East, restrictions around key shipping routes and reduced refining capacity. Diesel is particularly important for European transport, freight and agriculture, meaning sustained price increases can feed into broader production and consumer costs.

European governments have already introduced measures to limit the impact of the energy shock. The European Commission said EU governments spent around €17.9 billion in 2026 to cushion households and businesses from higher oil and gas prices, while warning that support measures should become more targeted and compatible with longer-term fiscal and energy-transition objectives.

The energy situation has also created tensions between Washington and European capitals. The Trump administration has urged France and Germany to release emergency diesel reserves, while warning of possible restrictions on US diesel exports if European stocks are not increased. EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic has called for greater coordination between the United States and Europe to address fuel shortages and contain prices.

Against this backdrop, Trump's description of Europe as being “eaten alive” reflects his broader criticism of European policies, but he did not provide a detailed explanation of the phrase in his Texas speech. The latest fuel data, however, confirm that Europe's energy situation remains a significant economic challenge.