European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has delivered a sobering assessment of the potential impact of Donald Trump's return to the White House, warning that Europe must "prepare for all scenarios" regarding transatlantic security cooperation.
The warning comes amid growing concerns about Trump's previous threats to withdraw US support from NATO allies who fail to meet defence spending targets. Von der Leyen, speaking with notable urgency, emphasised that such a move would have "far-reaching consequences" for European security architecture.
Direct Impact on Ukraine Conflict
Von der Leyen explicitly linked Trump's potential presidency to the ongoing war in Ukraine, stating that any reduction in American support would create serious challenges for Kyiv's defence efforts. The European leader's comments represent some of her most direct remarks to date about the possible geopolitical shifts following November's US election.
Europe's Strategic Response
The Commission President outlined Europe's necessary preparations, which include:
- Accelerating defence industrial capacity
- Strengthening European military coordination
- Developing contingency plans for reduced US involvement
- Maintaining unity among EU member states
Von der Leyen stressed that while the EU-US relationship remains fundamental, Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security regardless of election outcomes.
Broader Geopolitical Implications
The warning extends beyond Ukraine, touching upon concerns about Trump's approach to other global hotspots including Gaza. Von der Leyen's intervention highlights the growing anxiety among European leaders about potential isolationist tendencies in American foreign policy and the need for strategic autonomy.
As the US election approaches, von der Leyen's message serves as both a warning to European capitals and a call to action for greater self-reliance in defence and security matters.
