As former President Donald Trump declared victory in the 2024 US presidential election, leaders from around the world have begun extending their congratulations, despite ongoing vote counting in several key states.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was among the first to offer his congratulations, hailing Trump’s “impressive victory” and expressing hope that his return to the White House could bring the conflict in Ukraine closer to a resolution.
Zelenskyy, whose country has been embroiled in a war with Russia for nearly two years, has been a vocal advocate for continued Western support. In a tweet sent late Tuesday, November 5, Zelenskyy said:
“Congratulations to Donald Trump on his impressive victory. We hope his presidency will help bring a just peace in Ukraine closer and continue the fight for freedom and sovereignty.”
Trump’s relationship with Ukraine has been a topic of both praise and concern. While his administration was initially criticised for withholding military aid to Kyiv during the early months of his first term, Trump later expressed strong support for Ukraine’s efforts against Russian aggression.
His stance on international conflicts and foreign aid will be closely scrutinized, especially with regard to continued US support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.
European Union’s Diplomatic Outreach
European leaders have also been quick to congratulate Trump, underscoring the importance of transatlantic cooperation. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, sent a warm message on social media, highlighting the enduring partnership between the United States and the European Union. On X (formerly Twitter), von der Leyen wrote:
“Warm congratulations to President Trump. We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens. Let’s work together on a strong transatlantic agenda that keeps delivering for them.”
Her message reflects the EU’s desire to continue a strong working relationship with the US, particularly in areas such as trade, climate change, and security.
Similarly, EU Council President Charles Michel also extended his congratulations, stating that the European Union looks forward to “continuing our constructive cooperation” with the United States under Trump’s leadership.
The EU has long relied on US support in global affairs, and Michel’s comments suggest a desire to maintain stability in the EU-US relationship, even as the contours of future cooperation remain uncertain.
