International Leaders Respond to Trump's Projected Election Victory
Despite not having officially secured the election victory, congratulations for Donald Trump have begun to flow in. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his support on platform X, highlighting the long-standing collaborative efforts between Germany and the US aimed at promoting prosperity and freedom across the Atlantic. His coalition colleague and Finance Minister Christian Lindner wished Trump "fortune and wisdom" in his new role.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed Scholz’s sentiments, expressing readiness to engage in collaboration with the same respect and ambition that characterized their previous interactions. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer referred to the result as a "historic election victory," even before the vote counting was concluded.
In a celebratory address in Florida, Trump thanked his supporters and heralded the onset of a "golden age," having already secured 266 of the 270 electoral votes necessary for victory. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promptly responded with enthusiasm, deeming the Trump comeback as "the greatest comeback in history" and heralding it as a new beginning for America, fortifying the longstanding alliance between Israel and the US.
Right-wing leaders across Europe also expressed elation at Trump’s apparent success. Alice Weidel, co-leader of the German AfD, suggested that the US election could serve as a model for Germany. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán congratulated Trump on his Facebook page, hinting at "big plans" ahead. Dutch populist leader Geert Wilders joined in, stating, "Congratulations President Trump, Congratulations America! Never stop, keep fighting and winning elections." Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer also conveyed his congratulations, emphasizing the intention to enhance and strengthen transatlantic relations to tackle global challenges.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, in her congratulatory message, noted the shared values and historical friendship that bind Italy and the US as sister nations.
From Russia, an enthusiastic response came in the form of a "Hallelujah" from the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described Trump’s impending victory as impressive, expressing hopes for a personal meeting to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine post-election. However, the implications of Trump’s victory on the war in Ukraine remain uncertain; while Trump had promised to resolve the conflict swiftly during his campaigning, it is anticipated that military support will be less reliable compared to the Biden administration.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte articulated that Trump’s leadership would once again be pivotal for sustaining the strength of the transatlantic defense alliance, despite Trump’s previous threats to withdraw from NATO. JD Vance, the likely future Vice President, noted that Trump would keep the US in NATO if reelected, contingent upon member nations fulfilling their defense budget commitments.
Defense Minister Annalena Baerbock reiterated that Germany favors a close transatlantic relationship, regardless of political affiliations. However, her coalition colleague, SPD parliamentary group leader Rolf Mützenich, raised concerns over the potential effects of Trump’s victory on the international order, suggesting it could lead to a decline in the authority of international organizations like the United Nations.
The international response is a clear indication of the political dynamics and alliances at play following an election that could reshape global relations significantly.
Related Sources: