Leaked messages from the Trump administration have exposed officials' disdain for Europe, with remarks labeling the continent's reliance on U.S. military support as 'pathetic.'

This leak has ignited anger among European leaders, underscoring the widening rift between the U.S. and its European allies.

In the leaked conversation, Trump supported the notion that Europeans are 'mooching' off the U.S., asserting they have taken advantage of American trade.

National security adviser Michael Waltz indicated a shift in U.S. foreign policy, suggesting that the U.S. would impose costs on Europe for military actions, including invoicing European nations for their share.

The discussions culminated in a decision to proceed with military strikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, which had already begun shortly after the chat.

These airstrikes, which took place on March 15, 2025, were aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

The leaked texts reveal a transactional view of U.S.-European relations, with officials suggesting military actions should come with expectations of economic compensation from Europe.

Vice President J.D. Vance expressed frustration over Europe's perceived reliance on U.S. military support, stating, 'I hate having to help Europe again,' reflecting a broader sentiment within the administration.

Historically, Western Europe has relied on U.S. support since World War II, but recent criticisms of NATO spending have exacerbated mistrust.

Goldberg, the editor of The Atlantic, noted that the leaked communications contained sensitive operational details that could endanger U.S. military personnel if accessed by adversaries.

The leak occurred when the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic was mistakenly added to the chat on the encrypted app Signal, which is not authorized for classified discussions.

In response to the leak, President Trump denied knowledge of the messages and criticized The Atlantic, dismissing it as a magazine 'going out of business.'