European parliament divided over Trump's re‑election impact

The centre, left, and liberals harbour anxiety, whereas the far-right and conservatives are euphoric and hopeful. This is how the dividing line runs through the European Parliament in reaction to Donald Trump's election as President of the United States.

EU leaders reacted - some less, others more enthusiastically - to the outcome of the US elections on the day of its announcement. Ursula von der Leyen herself extended "warm" congratulations to the Republican. Yesterday (13th November 2024), in the European Parliament, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell cautioned: "We should be calm, vigilant. We should not give the impression that we are paralysed, caught like a deer in the headlights."

He admitted he is certain there is indeed much concern in the EU about the presidency of a man whom Americans have already seen in office, yet chose again.

Borrell expressed that this development would alter Europe's relationship with the United States as well as its connection with truth, which he noted has shown itself to be flexible. He believes that Europe cannot remain unaffected or indifferent to the outcome of the American elections, as the bond between Brussels and Washington is too significant. He added that the repercussions of this election would extend into the lives of future generations, reaching as far as those of our grandchildren.

The head of EU diplomacy warned that implementing Trump's administration's promise to impose 10% tariffs on trade with the European Union would have a significant impact on the economies of member countries. He also mentioned in this context the threat of Trump imposing tariffs on China as well. He warned that Chinese goods, which will not have access to the American market, may flood our markets.

However, he considered it crucial what policy the new American administration will adopt regarding the war between Russia and Ukraine and the escalation around China and Taiwan.

If Donald Trump begins imposing conditions on Kyiv, on which further support will depend, the EU's response must be to remain committed to its obligations to Ukraine and its people, believes the head of EU diplomacy. He emphasized EU countries must continue to offer the support they need to defend themselves. And he added that the EU generally provides more support to Ukraine than the US, whereas American military support alone is 25% higher.

He mentioned, among other things, the potential use of frozen Russian assets, as well as that no diplomatic agreement between the US and Russia can be reached, which would overlook the voices of Ukraine itself and the European Union. He concluded how this war ends matters, although perhaps some only want to see the end of the war and don't care how.

Trump's election, Borrell emphasized, should serve as a reminder that Europe needs to enhance its security and take control of its own destiny. He pointed out that this was Europe's message back in 2016, during a period when military spending in Germany only rose from 1.15% to 1.30% of GDP. Borrell argued that such an increase does not align with truly taking charge of one's fate. He further stressed that the EU is more than an economic community, noting that NATO cannot bear sole responsibility for security while Europe continues to produce weapons.

In the debate that ensued after the European Commission representative's words, MEPs were fairly predictably divided - representatives of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), Patriots for Europe (PE), and Europe of Sovereign Nations (ESN) argued that Trump in the White House is an opportunity for Europe, not a threat.

Jordan Bardella from PE considered the choice of Americans a "lesson" that Europe should not save others, but should take care of the nations that are part of it and protect them."Nicola Procaccini of ECR assured that the election result will not change relations with the EU, as these are based on culture, tradition, and history, while the "frustrated European left" does not understand American workers and farmers. "Let's do what we should. Strengthen the European part of NATO," he concluded. Meanwhile, Petar Volgin of ESN stated that America under Trump, focused on internal issues, is "an opportunity for the EU to start taking care of its own interests again" instead of being a subcontractor for the decisions issued by the Democratic Party in the US.

Representatives of the centre-right, liberals, and left spoke in a different tone.

Valérie Hayer from the Renew group stated that now, the political line of Washington will be Fox News and Elon Musk." She called for the adoption of a true industrial strategy. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that European startups remain within the continent and stressed the need to secure critical raw materials. She also pointed out that Europe's defence industry is very fragmented, noting that Europe has 17 different tank models, whereas the United States has only one. She also urged the EU to secure, among other things, the interests of European entrepreneurs and farmers in economic relations with the United States.

Meanwhile, Janis Maniatis from the Socialists and Democrats warned that the EU must prepare for transatlantic relations that will not be based on respect. In his opinion, Trump may limit support for Ukraine and move away from alliances like NATO. The European Union will have to be autonomous, he concluded.