Donald Trump has claimed Europe has become "Third World" because of failed immigration policies, renewing debate over migration, border security and national identity as immigration continues to reshape politics across the continent.
INR Report: Based on reporting by RT HERE.
The debate over immigration in Europe has returned to the international spotlight after US President Donald Trump declared that many European nations have effectively become "Third World" countries because of their migration policies.
The remarks were made on Saturday during America's Independence Day celebrations, with Trump taking time to criticise what he described as decades of failed immigration decisions by European governments.
Writing on social media, Trump argued that accepting large numbers of migrants had fundamentally altered many European societies.
"Europe is learning that when you take in Third World criminals, you become a Third World Country. It happens quickly, in just a blink of the eye," Trump wrote.
He concluded the post by adding:
"I was elected just in time!!!"
Immigration has remained one of the defining issues of Trump's political platform, with his administration continuing to pursue stricter border controls and tighter enforcement against illegal immigration in the United States.
Migration Continues To Reshape European Politics
Trump's comments come as immigration remains one of Europe's most politically divisive issues.
While the record influx of asylum seekers experienced during the 2015 migration crisis has eased, Europe's foreign-born population has continued to increase over the past decade.
Figures cited in the original RT report indicate the European Union's foreign-born population reached approximately 64.2 million people last year, growing by more than 20 million since 2010.
The issue has influenced elections across numerous European countries, with several governments adopting tougher migration policies in response to growing public concern over housing shortages, infrastructure pressures, crime, border security and social integration.
Supporters of higher immigration argue that migrant workers remain essential to addressing labour shortages and supporting ageing populations, while critics contend that migration levels have exceeded the capacity of many countries to successfully integrate new arrivals.
Vance Questions Britain's Political Direction
US Vice President J.D. Vance also entered the debate during an interview with the Sunday Times, criticising Britain's political leadership following another period of instability in Westminster.
"Something is very broken about British politics," Vance said.
He added that voters were increasingly demanding structural political change after years of economic uncertainty and changing governments.
The comments followed the resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, continuing a decade of frequent leadership changes in the United Kingdom.
Trade And NATO Disputes Continue
Immigration is only one area where relations between Washington and Europe remain under pressure.
Trump recently warned that the United States could impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on European goods should the European Union proceed with proposed taxes targeting American technology companies operating within Europe.
He has also renewed criticism of European NATO members, arguing that several allies have failed to demonstrate sufficient commitment despite the significant American military presence across the continent.
Speaking previously to NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump expressed frustration at what he viewed as a lack of reciprocity from some European partners.
Germany Rejects Calls For Loyalty
Germany responded by defending NATO's decision-making process.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius rejected suggestions that alliance members owed unquestioning loyalty to Washington.
Instead, he argued that NATO operates through consultation and consensus among sovereign member states rather than direction from any single government.
His remarks reflect continuing European efforts to balance close cooperation with the United States while maintaining independent decision-making on defence and foreign policy.
What Does This Mean?
Immigration has become one of the defining political issues across much of the developed world. Europe's experience since the 2015 migration crisis continues to influence elections, government policy and public debate as countries weigh humanitarian obligations against concerns over border security, infrastructure, housing and social cohesion.
The United States has increasingly framed immigration as a national security issue, while many European governments have tightened asylum rules and strengthened border enforcement in response to changing public sentiment.
For New Zealand, the discussion carries particular relevance. Although migration levels and circumstances differ significantly from Europe, New Zealand also relies heavily on immigration to meet workforce needs while managing pressures on housing, transport, healthcare and other public services. The European debate highlights the broader policy challenge facing many developed nations: balancing economic demand for skilled workers with community expectations around border management, integration and long-term population growth.
Source
RT — Europe is 'Third World' – Trump (Published 5 July 2026)