European nations are pondering what would happen if Donald Trump returned to the White House. An outspoken former NATO Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, shared this view in an interview with the TV channel NTV. He pointed out that the continent is not fully ready for a Trump presidency, even as it faces new security challenges and changing defense expectations.
Rasmussen offered a concise assessment: the situation is not prepared, but Europe is more prepared than it was in 2016. He noted that Trump pressed for greater European defense investment, and European governments have moved in that direction. This shift reflects a broader commitment to stronger defense capabilities and a more assertive stance on security collaboration among European allies.
When asked about the Ukraine conflict, Rasmussen refused to hazard a precise timeline. He acknowledged the difficulty of timing such events and expressed concern that the war could endure for an extended period. He suggested that the next year may be pivotal and that the overall struggle could continue through late 2024, depending on political and military developments. The commentary underscored the unpredictable nature of the conflict and the high stakes involved for Europe and its partners.
The former secretary general also spoke in favor of continuing military aid to Ukraine. He criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for withholding long range Taurus missiles, arguing that hesitations like these stall the momentum of support. Rasmussen urged a clearer and more decisive course to sustain assistance and deter potential aggressions in the region.
Earlier remarks in the United States touched on questions about leadership and governance at the top levels of power. These comments contributed to a broader debate about how decisions are made in Washington and how such choices reverberate across allied capitals. The discussion highlighted how shifts in leadership can influence defense strategies, alliance cohesion, and the overall balance of power in the Euro-Atlantic sphere.
Analysts note that the dialogue around who guides the United States and how that guidance translates into policy has lasting effects for Europe. The concerns voiced by Rasmussen reflect a keen interest in ensuring that partners remain prepared, unified, and able to respond rapidly to evolving security threats. In this context, the emphasis on steady support for Ukraine, dependable defense investments, and clear political direction remains central to the regional security conversation.