Trump warns European migration policy turns region into 'third world'

US President Donald Trump intensified his anti-immigration rhetoric on July 4, 2026, asserting that European countries are becoming "third world" nations by accepting "criminals from the third world" Source: portafolioco.

Immigration rhetoric

• Trump posted on Truth Social: "Europe is learning that when you welcome third world criminals, you become a third world country" Source: portafolioco. He added that it happens "in the blink of an eye" and claimed he was "elected just in time" to prevent a similar fate for the US Source: elnacionalve.
• During a Mount Rushmore event for Independence Day, Trump warned about "newcomers who do not share our values" Source: elnacionalve.
• The president has specifically criticized Spain, Italy, Germany, France, and the UK for their migration policies and for failing to support US operations during the war with Iran Source: portafolioco.

Broader dispute with allies

• Trump has also attacked NATO, calling it a "paper tiger" and threatening a US withdrawal, though such a move would require congressional approval Source: elnacionalve.
• He threatened 100% tariffs on European imports if the EU proceeds with a digital tax on US tech giants Source: elnacionalve.
• Despite tensions, Trump confirmed he will attend the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, though only "out of respect" for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Source: portafolioco.