How the world is preparing for Donald Trump's return

As the political world braces for Donald Trump’s return to the White House, leaders around the globe are watching closely, anticipating how his second term will reshape international relations. While tensions surrounding his comeback are palpable in many capitals, reactions vary widely—from hopeful optimism in some corners to concern and skepticism in others.

Russia: A New Beginning?

In Sochi, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed cautious optimism about Trump’s return. During a public address on November 7, Putin praised Trump’s courage in the face of personal adversity, referencing the two assassination attempts on the former president’s life. “A person shows himself in extraordinary circumstances,” Putin remarked. “He showed himself, in my opinion, in a very correct way, courageously, like a man.”

Putin’s remarks were followed by a diplomatic nod to the future, as he congratulated Trump on his electoral victory, reaffirming Russia’s openness to reset relations with the United States. “We will work with any head of state that the American people have given them the mandate,” Putin said, signalling Russia’s readiness for cooperation, but the ball is now in Trump’s court.

Venezuela: A Chance for Reconciliation

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who had a turbulent relationship with Trump during his first term, also expressed hopes for a new chapter. Speaking from Caracas on November 6, Maduro acknowledged the difficulties under Trump’s first administration, especially the US’s efforts to pressure Venezuela. However, he extended an olive branch, offering his support in light of the attempted attacks on Trump’s life and wishing him good health and a long life.

Despite their fraught history, Maduro is looking for a fresh start with Trump. “It is a new beginning for us to bet on winning–winning and for the United States and Venezuela to do well,” he said, echoing the tone of a leader who sees potential for cooperation moving forward.

Argentina: A Close Ally Celebrates

For some world leaders, Trump’s victory is a cause for celebration. Argentina’s newly elected President Javier Milei, a staunch supporter of Trump, wasted no time in expressing his delight. On November 6, Milei congratulated the US president-elect in a passionate speech, emphasising shared goals between Argentina and the US. “You can count on Argentina to make the United States great again, and we know that we can count on you to make Argentina great again,” he  said, offering well-wishes.

Milei is so eager to deepen ties that he is set to fly to the US next week to meet with Trump in person at Mar-a-Lago, along with mutual friend Elon Musk. The trio hopes to cement a partnership that could bring about significant economic and political benefits for both nations.

Hungary: A Populist Ally’s Joy

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, another long-time supporter of Trump, was similarly effusive in his reaction. On November 7, Orbán hosted a European summit in Brussels, but his enthusiasm for Trump’s win was clear. Speaking in Budapest, Orbán jokingly noted that he had promised to celebrate with champagne but was instead toasting with vodka in Kyrgyzstan when the victory was confirmed.

Orbán’s alignment with Trump has often put him at odds with the European Union, particularly over issues like the war in Ukraine and the US’s role in European security. However, with Trump back at the helm, Orbán sees an opportunity to strengthen Hungary’s influence within the EU and beyond, especially as Trump’s stance on Ukraine diverges sharply from that of many European leaders.

Europe: A Continent on Edge

While Orbán celebrates, most of Europe is preparing for a turbulent future. French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking to the press on November 7, emphasised that the priority for the European Union is not to second-guess the US election result, but to ensure that Europe is prepared to defend its interests. Macron’s comments underscored the unease many EU leaders feel about Trump’s approach to global diplomacy—particularly his stance on Ukraine, which threatens to complicate Europe’s security strategy.

Trump’s promise to end the war in Ukraine, without fully committing to continued US support for Kyiv, has left European capitals deeply concerned about the future of NATO and the security of the continent. European leaders are bracing for less American support, and many are already considering how they might need to go it alone in facing Russia’s aggression.

The World Waits

As the dust settles on Trump’s victory, one thing is clear: the world is divided in its reactions. Old adversaries like Russia and Venezuela are hoping for a reset in relations, eager to seize the opportunity for closer ties with the US. Meanwhile, traditional American allies in Europe are preparing for the possibility of a more isolationist US policy, one that could leave them to navigate an increasingly volatile world without the same level of American support.

For some, the return of Donald Trump represents a new dawn—one filled with potential for stronger alliances and economic growth. For others, it marks the beginning of a new and uncertain chapter in international relations. As the world waits for Trump to assume office again, it’s clear that nothing can be taken for granted anymore. What happens next is anyone’s guess.