Reacting to the likely re-election of Donald Trump, Renew Europe has called for European leaders to prepare for a new era of unpredictability. The US is and must remain a strong partner and ally, but Europe must develop new plans to increase autonomy, invest in European defence, guarantee Ukraine’s security and secure new security agreements with democratic allies.
In the face of likely US protectionism, Europe must also work to secure new, progressive trade agreements with democracies globally and work to convince Mr Trump of the benefits of the transatlantic relationship, including NATO.
Efforts to combat climate change, increase resilience, reduce polarisation and tackle foreign interference must be stepped up.
Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said:
“Many Europeans, particularly in Ukraine, will feel anxiety about this result. Europeans concerned about democracy can take a step to enhance it by getting involved in politics, their communities and raising money for Ukraine. European unity and clarity of purpose is now essential. Europe must finally take responsibility and ownership for its own destiny in a changing world. Regarding NATO, this means a strong european pillar within the alliance and a consequent commitment to increase even more national defence spending.
This also means increasing strategic autonomy, forging new trade and security deals with democracies and developing a new plan to support Ukraine, economically and militarily. Where Mr Trump divides, Europe must aim to unite. Europe must show it is capable of leading the free world.”
Sophie Wilmès (MR, Belgium), Vice-Chair of the EP Delegation for relations with the United States, said:
“The people of the United States made their choice. We know what Donald Trump stands for, so it is also a clear message for us, Europeans. For a long time now, Renew Europe has emphasised the urgent need for the EU to take its destiny into its own hands and strengthen its strategic autonomy in a whole series of fields such as economy, defence, and so on. This has never been more relevant. The United States remains our partner and ally so maintaining the bonds between us is essential. We will not hesitate to remind the American people of the merits of our strong cooperation.”