Socialist leader Garcia calls for ‘iron hand’ on Trump

BARCELONA, Spain – Socialist leader Iratxe García has accused the European Parliament’s center-right of hypocrisy as he called on European progressives to take an “iron fist” against Donald Trump and far-right forces.

The remarks come as socialist leaders seek to regain momentum and regain influence, using this weekend’s Global Progressive Congress in Barcelona – promoted by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez – to rally progressive forces across Europe.

“The center right cannot ask social democracy to guarantee political stability while negotiating daily policies with the far right,” she said at the summit, pointing to climate cooperation and migration as examples.

The EPP group must “decide and choose” whether it wants to continue working with pro-European forces or “open the door to an alliance with the extreme right”.

Garcia described the moment as a broader ideological battle, warning that far-right movements in Europe and their allies share “a clear objective… to destroy Europe.”

She also took aim at Washington, arguing that Europe should take a tougher stance on US President Donald Trump.

“The strategy of appeasement and silence is not the way forward … Trump only understands the language of power,” Garcia said, calling on Europe to respond with an “iron fist.”

She reiterated that the transatlantic relationship remains “fundamental” but must be “based on mutual respect”.

“That’s why it’s important to speak out when Trump and populism across Europe are trying to destroy the European project.”

Socialist leaders have described the Barcelona summit, promoted by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, as a “historic gathering” aimed at uniting progressive forces around a common democratic agenda.

“Parties are thinking machines – they have to make tangible proposals. Such a pedagogical event fosters an environment to think together and move forward,” said former EU diplomatic chief Josep Borrell. Euractiv on the outskirts of the event.

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