Trump's victory may trigger EU defence and economic overhaul
EU diplomats assessed in a conversation with the Politico portal that Donald Trump's victory could mobilize the European Union to take necessary steps toward strengthening defence and the economy.
A high-ranking EU diplomat told Politico that Trump's return would be a beneficial shock that will enable the EU to move forward, just as it was previously with the pandemic or the energy crisis after the Ukraine war outbreak.
The portal's diplomatic sources stated that the Republican candidate's victory would primarily impact the Union's defence policy. They believe that the USA's announced withdrawal from NATO would increase pressure on Europe to raise its defence spending, for example, through joint bond issuance.
According to the diplomats, Trump's return to power could stimulate Europe to strengthen investment in the industrial sector and further integrate the common market. They explain that this could prevent the EU economy's "slow agony," which Mario Draghi, the former head of the European Central Bank, warned about in his report.
"Europe should prepare for a big change"
As predicted by the sources, Trump's victory could also strengthen the faction of supporters advocating for a tougher approach towards China. Unlike Joe Biden, Trump might not avoid putting the EU in an "us or them" choice situation. One of the sources noted that such a situation could help European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen overcome opposition from countries favouring a gentler approach.
However, Politico sources emphasized that Europe should build its autonomy regardless of who wins. "Europe should prepare for a big change in EU-U.S. relations, no matter who is elected," the portal wrote.
