European Leaders Strategize for Trump's Presidency and Russia's Influence

Around 50 European leaders gathered in Budapest to discuss how Donald Trump's presidency could affect their continent. Emmanuel Macron, the French President, urged the leaders to prioritize European interests. The leaders agreed that defense spending should increase to lessen reliance on the U. S. NATO chief Mark Rutte praised Trump for encouraging higher defense spending among European NATO allies. Charles Michel, the EU council president, emphasized the need for Europe to be more self-reliant. Leaders like Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Greek Prime Minister, warned about geopolitical naivety. They hoped for smoother relations with the U. S. despite Trump's past campaign threats. Rutte expressed confidence in working with Trump. Concerns about Russia's support for Ukraine and its impact on both Europe and the U. S. were highlighted. Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian President, stressed the need for strong ties between Europe and the U. S. Hungarian and Italian leaders expressed optimism about future plans with Trump. The complex political situation in Germany and a possible election added to the uncertainty in Europe.