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November 6, 2024
Brussels — European leaders have extended congratulatory messages to former U.S. President Donald Trump on his projected victory in the 2024 presidential election. While official results are still pending, the Associated Press and Fox News have projected Trump as the winner, with Trump himself declaring victory early Wednesday morning. European leaders expressed eagerness to renew close ties with the United States under Trump’s second term, even as they await final confirmation.
French President Emmanuel Macron took to social media to congratulate Trump, tweeting, “Congratulations President Donald Trump. Ready to work together as we have done for four years,” expressing ambitions for “more peace and prosperity” between France and the U.S.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed the sentiment, highlighting the “special relationship” between the UK and the U.S. as crucial to defending “shared values of freedom, democracy, and enterprise.” Starmer expressed optimism for strengthening economic and security collaboration between the two nations.
In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the transatlantic alliance’s role in promoting prosperity and freedom. “Germany and the U.S. have been working together successfully for a long time… We will continue to do so for the wellbeing of our citizens,” he posted.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni celebrated Trump’s projected victory, calling the U.S. and Italy “sister nations” linked by a “strategic bond” and adding that she hopes to further strengthen their historic friendship.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte congratulated Trump as well, noting that his leadership will be essential to maintaining NATO’s strength. Rutte’s remarks come amid ongoing concerns in Europe about the alliance’s unity and commitments, especially as the region faces new security challenges.
Warm Receptions Across Europe
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán hailed Trump’s return as “the biggest comeback” and a “much-needed victory for the world.” Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof similarly congratulated Trump, emphasizing the importance of U.S.-Netherlands cooperation within NATO.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama bid farewell to outgoing President Joe Biden, calling his term “an honor” for Albania while looking forward to working with Trump on shared goals of peace and prosperity.
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis also offered congratulations, emphasizing Romania’s commitment to the strategic alliance with the U.S., while Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs reaffirmed the importance of strong U.S.-European ties, calling the U.S. “a strong and reliable partner” for Europe.
An Opportunity to Strengthen the Transatlantic Partnership
European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the deep partnership between the EU and the U.S., describing the alliance as essential for addressing global challenges. “Let’s work together on a strong transatlantic agenda,” she tweeted, echoing calls across Europe for unity in the face of global issues.
European Council President Charles Michel and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola similarly voiced support, with Michel underscoring the EU’s commitment to a “rules-based multilateral system” and Metsola highlighting the need for cooperation on pressing geopolitical challenges.
In Scandinavia, leaders from Norway, Finland, and Sweden each voiced support for Trump’s projected win, with Finnish President Alexander Stubb emphasizing Finland’s readiness to “work closely” on major global challenges, and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre calling the U.S. Norway’s “most important ally.”
Concerns Over Security and NATO Commitments
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen offered her congratulations but also pointed to a need for continued cooperation within NATO, particularly in light of Russian aggression. She expressed concern over China’s role in supporting Russia, warning that Beijing’s involvement has prolonged the conflict in Ukraine.
Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia’s leaders similarly emphasized the importance of their alliance with the U.S. and NATO’s stability. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis lauded the “enduring friendship” between Lithuania and the U.S., stressing its value in “overcoming all our enemies.”
As Europe prepares for Trump’s anticipated return to the White House, leaders have signaled both hope for strengthened alliances and vigilance in maintaining the stability of longstanding defense and economic partnerships. Trump’s second term promises to bring new dynamics to transatlantic relations, as European leaders anticipate both opportunities and challenges in their renewed partnership with the U.S.