BRUSSELS 

Romania's president said the transatlantic alliance is facing a new reality under US President Donald Trump, where economic and strategic considerations now take precedence over moral arguments.

Speaking to Politico on Monday, Nicusor Dan said Europe must develop practical strategies to manage relations with Washington amid the Trump administration’s unconventional approach to the EU.

"We shifted from a – in some sense – moral way of doing things to a very pragmatic and economical way of doing things," he said.

Dan stressed the importance of a continued partnership with the US, but also warned against undemocratic interference in European politics.

"It would be a problem if the US tried to influence politics undemocratically like the Russians are doing," he added.

Despite Trump's pressure for a ceasefire in Ukraine, Dan remains cautious about short-term prospects for peace. He said the EU’s €90 billion ($106 billion) joint debt loan to Kyiv will help Ukraine continue fighting, sending a "signal to Moscow that Kyiv will not collapse under pressure."

Dan also praised recent US sanctions on Russian oil firms Rosneft and Lukoil, describing them as "extremely powerful" and supportive of Ukraine, adding that "any peace agreement that rewards the aggressor would be detrimental to Europe’s long-term security," and added that the final decision rests with Ukraine.