European Leaders Congratulate Donald Trump, But Concerns Rise Over Security and Trade Challenges
Following Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election, European Union leaders took to social media to offer their congratulations. However, experts warn that the new leadership in the U.S. may bring fresh challenges for Europe, particularly in the areas of security and trade. Anna Wieslander, Director for Northern Europe at the Atlantic Council, told Al Jazeera, “Trump has been very clear about the need for Europe to increase its defense spending. He wants a commitment of 3% of GDP, and he will push for this aggressively.”
European Leaders Congratulate Donald Trump, But Concerns Rise Over Security and Trade Challenges
European Leaders Congratulate Donald Trump, But Concerns Rise Over Security and Trade Challenges
CSB News | November 11, 2024
Following Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election, European Union leaders took to social media to offer their congratulations. However, experts warn that the new leadership in the U.S. may bring fresh challenges for Europe, particularly in the areas of security and trade.
Anna Wieslander, Director for Northern Europe at the Atlantic Council, told Al Jazeera, “Trump has been very clear about the need for Europe to increase its defense spending. He wants a commitment of 3% of GDP, and he will push for this aggressively.”
NATO members committed to raising defense spending to 2% of GDP after Russia's annexation of Crimea, but many countries took time to meet this target. Effective action only came after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Wieslander added, “Europeans have long recognized the need to bolster security and defense, but this recognition has not been matched with sufficient resources or political will. Russia poses a persistent threat to European security. If U.S. engagement decreases, Europe must take the lead in supporting Ukraine to victory.”
Analysts believe that during Trump’s second term, the pressure on Europe to increase its defense spending will intensify, potentially leading to new crises for the continent.
