Francois Villeroy de Galhau, member of the European Central Bank's Governing Council and Governor of the Bank of France, has criticized United States President Donald Trump’s comments targeting Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. In an interview with Boursorama published on Friday, Villeroy stated that Trump was “wrong” to criticize Powell’s handling of monetary policy.

President Trump recently expressed dissatisfaction with Powell, saying the Fed Chair is “a little too slow” in lowering interest rates. These remarks come amid broader discussions on how central banks are navigating post-pandemic inflation and economic uncertainty. However, Villeroy offered a strong defense of Powell, praising his integrity and leadership. “He is doing his job very well,” Villeroy said, adding that Powell is known for his honesty and professionalism in managing monetary affairs.

Villeroy’s comments underscore the support Powell enjoys internationally, despite political pressures at home. The ECB policymaker’s remarks reflect a broader consensus within the central banking community regarding the importance of institutional independence and measured policy responses.

On the topic of inflation, Villeroy downplayed the impact of global trade tensions, describing the associated risks as “weak” and suggesting they could even be on the downside. His assessment contrasts with some economic forecasts that cite trade disputes as a major factor influencing inflation volatility.

Villeroy’s interview highlights ongoing divisions between political leaders and monetary authorities, particularly in the United States, where President Trump’s critiques of the Federal Reserve have intensified amid economic policy debates. Nevertheless, international voices like Villeroy’s continue to advocate for the independence and effectiveness of central banks as essential to economic stability.

The comments come at a time when markets are closely watching rate decisions on both sides of the Atlantic. While the Fed weighs its next moves under Powell’s leadership, the ECB remains focused on its own policy path, guided by assessments like Villeroy’s that see inflation risks as manageable and geopolitical tensions as secondary to core economic trends.