Von der Leyen slams ‘unacceptable’ treatment of France
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US President Joe Biden has caused a stir in the European Union as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen launched an attack at the EU.While speaking on CNN she demanded an explanation for why the US, UK and Australia had agreed on a deal without informing the European Union.This security deal meant that Australia pulled out of an agreement it had with France to purchase nuclear-capable submarines.
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La Palma volcano eruption: Thousands evacuated as homes destroyed Ms Von der Leyen insisted there would not be a return to “business as usual” with the US until the European Union got an explanation for the US’ actions.
She argued that France had been treated unfairly at that allies did not behave like this with one another.
CNN’s Christine Amanpour said: “Just on the EU Australia cancellation, why did that happen?”
Ms Von der Leyen replied: “Well there are a lot of open questions that need to be answered.
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‘We need to talk, Biden!’ Von der Leyen orders stop to ‘business as usual’ with US’ (Image: CNN)
VDL insisted business as usual between the US and EU should stop until Joe Biden explains (Image: GETTY) “One of our member states has been treated in a way that is not acceptable.
“We want to know what happened and why, therefore, the US must clarify that before you keep on with business as usual.”
The CNN host questioned whether this could spark further divide between the EU and US.
Ms Amanpour continued: “Do you feel that Europe has been dissed?
The CNN host questioned whether this could spark further divide between the EU and US.(Image: GETTY) AUKUS: France will lose out by going off ‘in huff’ says expert
“Yet again the United States has not consulted you on an important move after Afghanistan.
“Most importantly, it might create division and allow China to seek division between you allies.
“Are you worried about that?”
Ms Von der Leyen replied: “I can very well understand the disappointment in Europe about the way this issue was handled.
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AUKUS proves brexit Britain is a success without EU Trending “We are friends and allies and friends and partners talk to each other and talk to each other on issues of common interest.
“This clearly didn’t happen and the EU and Joe Biden need to talk.
“On the other hand, we also have many important topics on our global agenda.
“Topics where we are working side by side, be it the health issue or climate change, these are just a few examples.”
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