A fresh wave of transatlantic tension erupted after revelations from The Atlantic's editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, who published the full transcript of a controversial group chat involving top U.S. officials.
The leaked chat, initially downplayed by the Trump administration as non-sensitive, in fact contained details of military plans and remarks ridiculing European allies.
The controversy centers on a Signal chat from March 15, where U.S. Secretary of Defense Hegseth noted favorable weather conditions for an airstrike and outlined a timeline for the mission.
The information was reportedly shared with Goldberg two hours before the operation began—raising concerns about the potential threat to U.S. pilots and personnel had such data fallen into the wrong hands.
Despite White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's claim that the chat contained no classified material, Goldberg argued that public interest clearly justified disclosure, especially in light of the administration's dismissive stance.
Intelligence experts have long warned against discussing sensitive national security matters via insecure messaging platforms like Signal.
The fallout extended beyond Washington.
U.S. Vice President Vance responded defensively, accusing Goldberg of sensationalism and insisting that references to CIA personnel were overblown.
CIA Director Ratcliffe later testified in the Senate, asserting that the individual named was not a covert agent and that the disclosure was appropriate.
But what truly ignited European outrage were the disparaging remarks within the chat about America's allies.
President Trump doubled down, reiterating to reporters that Europe benefits unfairly from the U.S., echoing his long-standing grievances.
While the EU has yet to issue a formal response, symbolic gestures have made their discontent clear.
Germany’s Foreign Ministry released a satirical video mocking the American officials.
In the clip, five bureaucrats and their 'boss' exchange trivial messages, complete with emojis, lampooning the style of the leaked Signal chat.
The punchline targeted U.S. National Security Advisor Woltz, who had used emojis like the American flag and fire in the original conversation.
According to Politico Europe, unnamed EU diplomats expressed disbelief and frustration.
“The American mindset is utterly distorted,” said one.
Another exclaimed, “This is madness, totally over the top.” UK Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey questioned the competence of officials who “can’t even manage a group chat” to handle military power.
Belgian former PM Guy Verhofstadt added that the leaked criticisms were a wake-up call for Europe’s defense policy.
While the White House downplays the chat as a private discussion, the diplomatic damage may be lasting.
The breach not only exposed operational vulnerabilities but deepened doubts over America’s reliability as a partner—especially as European leaders reassess the balance of power and the future of transatlantic cooperation.