The re-election of Donald Trump as President of the United States has sparked a wave of reactions on the global stage, with Greece closely monitoring the unfolding developments.
For the Greek government, U.S. policy remains of strategic importance, and the prospect of a second Trump term presents both challenges and opportunities. The emerging political landscape could significantly impact Greek-American relations, with key issues like the Greek-Turkish conflict and foreign policy likely to be at the forefront.
The Greek government has repeatedly emphasized that Greek-American relations are “strategic,” with common positions on various geopolitical, energy security, and regional stability matters. Greece looks to strengthen this relationship, as reiterated by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who stressed the importance of cooperation with the U.S. on major global issues. During his meeting with the U.S. Senate, Mitsotakis received a warm reception, being applauded across political lines, a sign of the deep trust and stability characterizing the bilateral ties.
However, with Trump’s re-election, significant shifts are expected in three key areas: the economy, foreign policy, and relations with Turkey.
The Economy
The economy is the first critical issue. Trump has repeatedly signaled his intention to impose tariffs of up to 20% on imports from several countries, including Greece. This could negatively impact Greek exports to the U.S. and lead to economic uncertainty, particularly at a time when global economic conditions are already volatile. The potential consequences of Trump’s trade policies could thus harm Greece’s economy and its trade relationship with the U.S.
Foreign Policy
Foreign Policy is the second key area of concern. During his campaign, Trump expressed a desire to reduce U.S. military involvement abroad, which could have far-reaching consequences for international alliances and Greece’s strategic positioning. This shift may affect Greece’s role in global hotspots like Ukraine and the Middle East. Greece may need to adapt to a more isolationist and self-reliant U.S. foreign policy, potentially impacting its relations with the U.S. and other NATO allies.
Relations with Turkey
Relations with Turkey represent the third crucial issue. Following Trump’s re-election, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed optimism about the prospects of improved Turkey-U.S. relations, particularly on issues like Palestine and the ongoing war in Ukraine. While Trump had criticized Turkey in the past over issues such as the purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems, he had also publicly praised Erdoğan and their cooperation. This personal rapport between the two leaders raises concerns that Turkey could gain greater leverage in its dealings with Washington, complicating Greece’s position in the Eastern Mediterranean.
In conclusion, Greece must closely monitor these developments and prepare for the potential challenges that could arise from Trump’s policies. While the Greek government has strengthened communication channels with Washington, the results so far have been limited. Greece must continue to fortify its strategic relationship with the U.S., ensuring its national interests are safeguarded while promoting policies that contribute to regional stability and security. The shifting dynamics under Trump’s leadership could pose risks but also open new avenues for diplomatic engagement, making it essential for Greece to stay agile in its foreign policy approach.
