Later they kissed and made up. But before that, at that NATO summit in Brussels, President Trump let them know who’s boss.
No more rolling over…and while he was respectful to the Queen, and contrary to the habits of his predecessor, he did not bow.
He focused on Angela Merkel, since she represents them all. He schooled her for double-dealing – that pipeline to Russia that puts Germany at the mercy of Putin who can turn off the energy spigot any time he wants, and then who ya gonna call? The United States, of course, which will have to come to the rescue, as usual.
Which is why the 28 heads of the EU circle around Trump like small trembling fish around a Whale. Twice before America had to put Humpty Dumpty together again.
So Merkel makes that deal with Russia and then expects the United States to continue paying most of the tab for NATO, which exists as a deterrent against Russia.
To which Trump says – Are you nuts?
If not in so many words, and in the end, it was all patched up. It was agreed that NATO is solid and that the United States can always be counted on as a friend.
But Europe will have to start paying its fair share.
Though a particular French diplomat – perhaps horrified that Trump was using the wrong fork – was heard saying he resents being pushed around.
He said it (like Trudeau once did) after Trump left the meeting. Funny how brave they get when Trump is out of sight.