Is Trump's Return Causing More Concern or Optimism in Europe?

During his first term, Donald Trump had a bumpy relationship with the EU. He imposed several rounds of tariffs as part of his America First policy. In contrast, US President Biden reassured allies that America's back. But many European leaders must have secretly wondered, 'yea but for how long?' Now, with Trump set to return to the White House, some circles in Europe could be feeling unease, while others could be sensing opportunities.

During his campaign Trump said Europe would have to pay a big price for not buying enough American exports. He promised to slap a 10 percent tariff on all imports and make Europe shoulder more financial responsibility in aiding Ukraine. His pick for US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, voted against a $95B aid package to Kiev back in April. In the aftermath of Trump's win, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Scholz vowed to cooperate closer and strengthen Europe's unity. But will establishment voices that have been critical of Trump be moderated by several European leaders who are welcoming his return?

Guests:
Pablo Hispan
Spanish MP at Council of Europe

Samuel Doveri Vesterbye
Managing Director at the European Neighbourhood Council

Valeria Giannotta
CeSPi Scientific Director for the Observatory on Türkiye