European readiness for US political changes isnt what it used to be about eight years ago: despite having more experience its position got way more complicated
The continent learned its lessons from dealing with previous US leadership - meetings led by EU Commission throughout last year worked on response plans (specifically for trade-war scenarios and defense spending issues). Brussels prepared counter-measures against possible new tariffs; meanwhile defense industry cooperation plans stay ready-to-go when needed
Mark Rutteʼs appointment as NATO head shows smart planning: his past experience in working with different US approaches makes him a good pick for keeping trans-atlantic bonds stable. Yet European decision-makers know that maintaining stable relations might need extra work this time
The global landscape changed dramatically since previous US leadership switch - Europe finds itself caught between conflicts in Ukraine and Middle-east. The international rules system that helped keep order is getting weaker; plus US-China relations are putting pressure on everyone in-between
- Trade defense measures
- Military spending plans
- Leadership appointments
- Common industry projects
Unity showed its worth during past challenges like covid pandemic euro problems and Ukraine situation but Europeans need even more team-spirit now - the continents influence depends on how well it can work together in tough times