The European Commission (EC) has formed a special task force in anticipation of the potential return of former U.S. President Donald Trump to the White House.
Might Suspend Military and Financial Aid
The move reflects growing anxiety in Brussels about possible shifts in U.S. foreign policy under a Trump administration, particularly regarding support for Ukraine, according to Lenta.
The task force is motivated by fears that a second Trump presidency could lead to a significant alteration in Washington's stance on Ukraine. Specifically, there are concerns that Trump might suspend or end military and financial aid to Kyiv and pressure Ukraine into accepting terms favorable to Russia. Such developments could drastically impact the ongoing conflict and Europe's security landscape.
Alarmed by Previous Threats
EU leaders are also reportedly alarmed by Trump’s previous threats to withdraw the U.S. from NATO or alter the alliance’s defense spending rules.
Trump has previously suggested that NATO members who do not meet defense spending targets could face changes in the collective defense provisions of the alliance. On July 24, Bloomberg reported that Trump might push for NATO members to increase their defense expenditures to three percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a proposal discussed at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
This proactive stance by the European Commission underscores the seriousness with which Brussels views the potential geopolitical shifts that a Trump return could precipitate. As Europe continues to navigate the complexities of international relations and security, the prospect of changes in U.S. policy toward Ukraine and NATO remains a significant concern for EU policymakers.
