8 hours agoWhite House elections and European expectations
Periskopi(2 years ago)
(2 years ago)Europe is preparing for the possible return of former President Donald Trump to power, while his Democrat rival Kamala Harris remains largely unknown. As American Voice correspondent Lisa Bryant of Paris reports, many Europeans are concerned about the outcome of the American presidential election and the impact it may have on the future [...]
Many Europeans have no good memories of Mr. Trump's presidency.
In France, the relationship that was initially friendly between President Emmanuel Macron and the American counterpart quickly cooled.
Tensions between Europe and Washington increased over trade, Iran, climate change and Mr. Trump's approach to NATO.
If he returns to power, former President Trump says he will set high tariffs on Europe, seek negotiations to end Russia's war in Ukraine and reduce US support for Kiev. These attitudes, European leaders, are strongly opposed.
There is a feeling that he is harsher, more radical and more dangerous. There are concerns about Europe's future, NATO and the protection and solidarity needed to face Russia”, says French political analyst Nicole Bachanan.
The European Union is reportedly preparing to ease the possible impact of a victory by Mr. Trump.
Throughout Europe, people are concerned.
“Trumpi scares us because it expresses hatred, lies and we think he behaves like a despot, as dictator”, says Paris resident Herve Willemont.
Analysts say Europeans mainly want Vice President Kamala Harris's victory, for which they hope will continue transatlantic ties that were strengthened during the administration of President Biden. However, analysts say these ties could be weakened regardless of who wins the elections, as American priorities are moving elsewhere.
I think a victory for Mrs. Harris would create a great relief in Europe... However, she has not said anything essential, when it comes to foreign policy... so it remains somewhat a mystery for many European”, says Gness Weber of the German Marshall Fund.
Former President Trump already has several European supporters. Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban says he will celebrate if Mr. Trump wins.
Mr. Trump's harsh language of immigration finds support among populist, far-right parties in Europe.
“I'm concerned about democracy, if Trump wins these elections will also affect Europe”, says Caroline E. Santo, Portuguese, who lives in Paris.
Some analysts believe a second term of Mr. Trump could spur Europe to strengthen its military and economic defence -- a move that critics say the bloc should have done years ago. / VOA
