Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Brussels on Tuesday amidst growing apprehension among European officials regarding potential changes in US support for Ukraine, NATO, and trade policies under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.
The trip follows the recent US presidential election and comes at a time when European leaders are preparing for the possibility of another four years of a Trump presidency. In response to the election outcome, leaders such as France’s Emmanuel Macron have emphasized the need for a more united and sovereign Europe, while other governments, like Germany’s, are facing internal challenges.
Macron highlighted the importance of European nations taking greater responsibility for their security, stating, “We cannot rely on American support indefinitely.”
Concerns have been raised over Trump’s stance on Ukraine, with doubts being cast on the US commitment to Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Trump and his running mate have suggested a potential shift in US policy towards Ukraine, including the possibility of pressuring the country to accept a truce with Russia.
Additionally, Trump has raised questions about NATO’s mutual defense commitment, indicating that member countries must meet their defense spending obligations to receive full US support. He recounted a conversation where he allegedly told a foreign leader that the US would not come to their aid in the event of a Russian invasion if they failed to meet their financial commitments.
The uncertainty surrounding the future US approach to international relations has left European officials on edge, with many calling for a reevaluation of transatlantic partnerships and a renewed focus on European security and sovereignty.
