Leaders | Prepare for President Trump

Europe must hurry to defend itself against Russia—and Donald Trump

The ex-president’s invitation to Vladimir Putin to attack American allies is an assault on NATO. Ultimately, that is bad for America

Former US President and 2024 presidential hopeful Donald Trump points to the crowd at a "Get Out the Vote" Rally in South Carolina.
Photograph: Getty Images

If donald trump returns to the White House, which version will it be? Tough-love Trump who cajoled allies to spend more on defence, reinforced nato troops on the eastern flank and began to arm Ukraine; or vindictive Trump who will act on his threats to sabotage nato? Expect sabotage.

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This article appeared in the Leaders section of the print edition under the headline “Brace for the Don”

From the February 17th 2024 edition

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