Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that US President Donald Trump will bring sweeping geopolitical changes, particularly in Europe.
He claimed Trump would “restore order” and that European nations would quickly fall in line under his leadership.
Putin’s remarks come amid growing tensions between the United States and its key allies over trade policies, military commitments, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
With Trump’s stance on NATO funding and US support for Ukraine under scrutiny, European leaders fear a shift in Washington’s foreign policy might leave them vulnerable.
Putin on Trump: ‘Everything will fall into place’
During an interview on state television, Putin expressed confidence in Trump’s ability to assert control over European allies.
“With his character and persistence, he will restore order quickly,” Putin stated. “And you will see—they will all stand at the feet of the master and wag their tails a little. Everything will fall into place.”
The Russian leader did not elaborate on how Trump would achieve this.
Still, his remarks suggest Moscow sees an opportunity to benefit from shifting alliances if Trump returns to the White House.
US-Europe relation: Trade tensions and economic turmoil
One of the major flashpoints in US-Europe relations under Trump is trade policy.
Trump has imposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, triggering market instability and diplomatic friction.
Now, European nations are bracing for similar economic disruptions.
The European Commission has warned that any new tariffs the US imposes will be met with countermeasures.
While the European Union seeks to maintain stable trade ties, officials are preparing for possible economic retaliation if Trump revives his aggressive trade stance.
Russia, meanwhile, stands to benefit from any rift between the US and its allies.
With Western sanctions already limiting Moscow’s economic options, increased trade tensions between the US and Europe could weaken the West’s united front against Russia.
Ukraine war and shifting alliances
Beyond trade, the ongoing war in Ukraine remains a crucial factor in US-Europe relations.
European leaders worry that Trump may withdraw or reduce military and financial support for Ukraine, forcing European nations to shoulder the burden alone.
Trump has criticized NATO allies for not meeting their defense spending commitments and has suggested that European nations should take greater responsibility for their security.
If he moves to cut US military aid to Ukraine, it could drastically alter the balance of power in the region.
Putin has expressed hope for improved relations between Russia and the US under Trump’s leadership.
He has previously indicated a willingness to engage in negotiations, though Ukrainian officials fear that any peace deal brokered under Trump could force Kyiv into unfavorable concessions, possibly ceding territory to Russia.
European skepticism and leadership concerns
European leaders are meeting in Brussels to discuss the potential implications of US policy shifts.
While their primary agenda focuses on strengthening defense strategies, the looming uncertainty over Trump’s foreign policy approach remains a key concern.
Some European nations, particularly in Eastern Europe, have already shown signs of hesitation in enforcing strict sanctions on Russia or committing additional resources to Ukraine.
If Trump distances the US from European security matters, internal divisions within the EU could deepen, further complicating its response to Russia’s actions.
Putin has also taken the opportunity to criticize current European leaders, suggesting they lack the conviction of their predecessors.
Citing figures like France’s Charles de Gaulle and Germany’s Gerhard Schröder, Putin claimed modern European politicians lack the independence and strength to stand up for their beliefs.
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