Borrell: Trump’s Return Signals 'Wake-Up Call' for Europe to Strengthen Its Own Security

The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, has commented on the future presidency of Donald Trump in the United States, indicating that Europe is facing significant global shifts and a realignment of geopolitical balance.

Speaking in an interview with European Pravda, Borrell emphasized that Trump’s election presents a “wake-up call” for Europe.

“We must understand that we can no longer outsource our security to others; it’s time to take responsibility ourselves,” Borrell stated. “If Europe seeks to maintain influence on the world stage, we need to become more united and build a stronger Europe.”

Borrell highlighted a broad consensus within the EU on the necessity for greater strength and unity among European nations. He acknowledged that certain anticipated moves by the incoming Trump administration, especially in the area of international trade, are understandable.

“We expect to see tariffs on Chinese goods and, potentially, on EU products as well. However, the approach of the United States toward Ukraine remains uncertain,” Borrell remarked.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump’s team is reportedly exploring a possible “freeze” of the Ukrainian front line along the current territorial demarcation, with a proposed demilitarized zone and a 20-year moratorium on NATO membership for Ukraine, aligning with Trump’s promise to “quickly end the war” in Ukraine.

During a recent visit to Kyiv, Josep Borrell emphasized that Ukraine’s EU candidacy is the strongest security guarantee against Russian aggression. Speaking alongside Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Borrell called Ukraine’s path to European integration a vital counter to Russia’s territorial ambitions, especially as the nation advances crucial reforms.