PAU: French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou warned Monday that France and the EU could be "crushed" if they fail to react to the policies announced by US President-elect Donald Trump, who will be sworn in later today. "The United States has decided on an incredibly dominating policy through the dollar, through industrial policy, through the capture of all research and the capture of investments," Bayrou said during a New Year's address to municipal staff in Pau, where he still remains mayor after becoming prime minister.

According to Anadolu Agency, Bayrou emphasized that if no action is taken, France and Europe risk being dominated, marginalized, and crushed. He stressed the importance of a collective recovery effort by French and Europeans, stating that it is impossible without Europe. Bayrou identified the policies of the US and the growing economic power of China as two significant challenges facing France and Europe on the international stage.

He highlighted China's trade surplus exceeding $1 trillion in December, stressing the importance of coordinated action. Bayrou stated that the inauguration of Donald Trump places a significant responsibility on France and Europe. He urged collective recovery efforts to counter the emerging global threats, emphasizing that France and Europe cannot remain passive in the face of these challenges.

Bayrou's warning comes as Trump is about to assume office as the 47th US president, marking the start of a term expected to bring significant policy shifts.