European Leaders Reassess US Relations Amid Political Shifts

European leaders, including Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO figures, reevaluate trans-Atlantic relations due to Donald Trump's potential return as US president. Meanwhile, Germany faces political turmoil, and EU-US ties remain crucial amid Trump's past actions and statements. The situation affects ongoing issues like the Ukraine conflict.

European leaders convened to reevaluate trans-Atlantic relations as the prospect of Donald Trump's return to the US presidency looms large. Notable attendees included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. This gathering comes amid political turbulence in Germany, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissing his finance minister, potentially leading to an election and a confrontation between establishment parties and the hard right.

The US election's ramifications took precedence, with European Council President Charles Michel underscoring the significance of the EU-US relationship, expressing readiness to fortify it. As the European Union bloc plans a separate summit, concerns about Trump's past threats, such as a trade war with Europe and withdrawal of NATO support, weigh heavily on leaders.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, an avid Trump supporter, already initiated dialogue with the incoming president, illustrating a potential strategic shift. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is expected to urge for continued aid, amid anxiety over Trump's pledge to rapidly end the war, potentially signaling reduced US backing.

(With inputs from agencies.)