US did this to themselves, FATCA et al pushed very aggressively by US government through regional/EU governments. Same goes for ie Switzerland, land for US retirees on very opposite wealth spectrum compared to this article. Now there is like 1 bank in the land of banks that accepts US citizens.

And first part of the OP's statement is true - its easy to retire into southern Europe from wealthier parts of Europe. Quality of life, safety, healthcare etc is usually more than fine.