Western Leaders React to Trump’s Return to White House with Mixed Emotions

 

Donald Trump’s return to the White House with a strong mandate for his “America First” agenda has sparked swift and varied responses from leaders worldwide, particularly in Europe, where allies are both congratulating and quietly concerned about the potential impact on global stability, security, and economic relations.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, one of Trump’s closest allies in Europe, was among the first to celebrate his victory, calling it “the biggest comeback in US political history.” Orbán is set to host over 45 European leaders in Budapest this week, where the impact of Trump’s presidency on European security and the war in Ukraine is expected to be a major topic of discussion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remained optimistic despite the possibility of reduced US support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia, stating that Trump’s “peace through strength” approach could foster a “just peace.” New NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also expressed optimism, saying Trump’s leadership “will be key to keeping our alliance strong.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, another of Trump’s close allies, welcomed the news as a “new beginning” for US-Israel relations and voiced hope that Trump would continue to supply Israel with military support and counter Iran. However, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps deputy chief warned of retaliation, escalating regional tensions in response to recent Israeli strikes.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated Trump on his victory and reiterated the UK’s commitment to its “special relationship” with the US, emphasizing shared values in freedom and democracy. However, former British Ambassador to the US Nigel Sheinwald expressed reservations, predicting that Trump’s foreign policy could cause anxiety among US allies and embolden adversaries.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who clashed with Trump during his previous term, diplomatically said he was “ready to work together” with Trump for “peace and prosperity.” French European Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad, however, pushed for Europe to pursue stronger defense independence, cautioning against relying too heavily on US foreign policy.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who has prepared contingency plans for a Trump presidency, including possible tariffs on US goods, said she hopes to maintain the transatlantic economic relationship, which supports millions of jobs and trade on both sides of the Atlantic.

Responses from other European leaders also ranged widely. In Germany, Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democrat Party criticized the current German government’s reliance on US leadership and called for a bolder European stance on security and defense, particularly regarding Ukraine. Poland’s populist PiS party voiced apprehension over Trump’s isolationist tendencies, with officials calling for a renewed focus on European security.

China, expected to be impacted by Trump’s trade policies, responded cautiously, expressing hopes for “peaceful coexistence” and continued mutual respect. However, Beijing is wary of Trump’s potential moves to broker a peace deal with Russia, which could have significant implications for European and Baltic states, particularly those like Estonia, which view Russia’s aggression as a direct threat.

In response to Trump’s return, European leaders are preparing to reassess defense and economic strategies, with some, like former French ambassador Gérard Araud, likening the moment to an “earthquake” for Europe’s security and trade relations. As Europe braces for what Trump’s term may bring, leaders are calling for increased unity and self-reliance amid shifting global dynamics.