Trump administration to fund MAGA-aligned projects in Europe

The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to launch a series of grants in Europe and beyond to support initiatives aligned with the MAGA agenda, as part of a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid priorities. According to a report citing a State Department notice sent to lawmakers, these proposed grants include $2 million designated to "counter censorship" arising from European Union regulations such as the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act.

Germany has voiced concerns over the initiative, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz warning the U.S. against interfering in European elections. He stated that while Germany does not interfere in American elections, he does not want the U.S. government to interfere in German elections. The funding is intended for European charities, think tanks, and individuals who seek to address issues of national sovereignty, migration, and censorship in line with a specific political philosophy.

Former U.S. officials suggest this grant scheme is part of an ongoing effort by the State Department to repurpose funds to support right-wing groups and potentially political parties in Europe. However, they note that U.S. laws around foreign assistance might pose limitations. Merz also highlighted that financing political parties from abroad is illegal in Germany. Concerns persist that the initiative could provide an unfair advantage to certain right-wing parties.