BRUSSELS — Ryanair’s chief executive, Michael O’Leary, has made headlines with his sharp criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, labeling him a “liar” and asserting that he is “historically wrong” on many significant geopolitical matters facing the world in 2026. This outburst, which took place during an interview with POLITICO, is notable as corporate leaders generally avoid direct confrontations with the unpredictable American president.
O’Leary’s critique of Trump’s policies
In his remarks, O’Leary rebuked Trump for his lack of support for Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia, as well as for implementing tariffs that have disrupted global trade dynamics. “I think Trump is historically wrong on Ukraine and on Russia, he’s historically wrong on tariffs,” O’Leary commented, while acknowledging that the president’s critique of European nations’ defense contributions is valid.
Expressing his political leanings, O’Leary mentioned that if he were American, he would naturally align with the Republican Party. However, he firmly stated that he would never endorse a party led by Trump. “I don’t have any faith or trust in Trump, who has proven himself to be again and again a liar,” he declared.
Defending European freedoms and addressing aviation regulations
O’Leary’s outspoken nature is not unprecedented; he has previously criticized Trump, positioning himself as a rarity among corporate executives who have largely shown deference to the current administration. Despite his criticisms, Ryanair has no plans to expand its transatlantic operations, maintaining a solid relationship with Boeing, a significant aircraft supplier, which helps shield the airline from potential political repercussions.
In light of ongoing political and economic changes, O’Leary called for the European Union (EU) to defend its single market, which he regards as a major success of his lifetime. He emphasized the importance of reducing “stupid travel taxes” and unnecessary regulations to enhance Europe’s competitive edge in the aviation sector. “There’s a war in Ukraine. You’ve [got] Trump at the White House. No, let’s re-regulate fucking air travel again,” O’Leary stated.
Highlighting the EU’s successes, he listed low-cost air travel, roaming charges, and the Erasmus program as key achievements that have fostered closer ties among young Europeans. However, he warned of the need to protect these freedoms amidst increasing regulatory pressures.
O’Leary vehemently criticized proposals aimed at raising taxes and imposing further regulations, such as Belgium’s proposed aviation tax intended to promote sustainable transportation. He denounced the European Parliament’s draft on passenger rights as “a mad, illegal proposal,” calling it a “talking shop of idiots” that burdens European consumers with additional costs.
In retaliation to the proposed tax, Ryanair announced plans to reduce its operations at Brussels South Charleroi Airport by cutting one million seats in 2026 and further scaling back its fleet from 19 to 15 aircraft by 2027. Instead of imposing additional taxes on passengers, O’Leary suggested that the EU’s Emissions Trading System should also apply to long-haul flights outside the EU, which currently are exempt. “If you’re really serious about the environmental taxes here in Belgium, put ETS on American flights, put ETS on Asian flights and put ETS on Gulf flights,” he urged.
However, he acknowledged that such measures could provoke tensions with the U.S., which has cautioned against climate initiatives that adversely affect American businesses. O’Leary concluded that these changes are unlikely to materialize while Trump remains in power.