As Donald Trump claimed an unexpected yet sweeping victory in the U.S. presidential election over Kamala Harris, world leaders moved swiftly to extend their congratulations, signaling renewed or strengthened diplomatic ties. Financial markets also reacted positively to the election outcome, showing gains as global stability concerns eased. Here are the initial international reactions, with official confirmation of results still pending:
China Calls for ‘Mutual Respect’
China expressed its hope for a stable relationship with the United States. At a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning avoided a direct reference to Trump but emphasized that China seeks “peaceful coexistence” and “win-win cooperation” based on mutual respect. “We respect the choice of the American people,” she said.
Russia: Awaiting ‘Concrete Steps’
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had no immediate plans for President Vladimir Putin to congratulate Trump, noting the U.S. is considered an “unfriendly country.” Peskov emphasized that Russia’s response would depend on “concrete steps and concrete words.”
Israel: ‘Powerful Recommitment’
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed Trump’s victory as “history’s greatest comeback,” highlighting a fresh start in U.S.-Israel relations. “Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning… and a powerful recommitment to the alliance between Israel and America,” Netanyahu said.
Ukraine: Hopes for a ‘Just Peace’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Trump’s “impressive victory” and expressed hope that his return to power could bring “just peace in Ukraine closer.” He cited Trump’s commitment to the principle of “peace through strength” as critical in achieving lasting peace.
NATO Chief Emphasizes ‘Peace Through Strength’
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte congratulated Trump, stating that his leadership would be key in bolstering the alliance’s resilience. “I look forward to working with him again to advance peace through strength,” Rutte remarked.
Nigeria to Strengthen Ties with the U.S.
President Bola Tinubu extended congratulations to Trump, voicing optimism for deepened U.S.-Nigeria cooperation. In a statement from Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu stated that “Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and tackle global challenges that affect our citizens.”
EU: ‘Strong Transatlantic Agenda’
European Union President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X, celebrating the EU-U.S. alliance. “The EU and the U.S. are more than just allies. We are bound by a true partnership between our people,” she said, pledging to work with Trump on a “strong transatlantic agenda.”
France: ‘Respect and Ambition’
French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Trump and pledged to collaborate “with respect and ambition.” In a message on X, Macron acknowledged their different views but affirmed commitment to advancing “peace and prosperity.”
Germany Vows to Be a ‘Reliable Ally’
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized Germany’s longstanding ties with the U.S., assuring that the two countries would continue promoting “prosperity and freedom” across the Atlantic.
Qatar: Focus on ‘Security and Stability’
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani expressed eagerness to work with Trump to promote “security and stability” in the region and beyond, noting Qatar’s role as a mediator in the Gaza conflict.
Turkey: Erdogan Greets ‘My Friend’ Trump
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan extended a warm congratulatory message to “my friend Donald Trump,” hoping Trump’s leadership would help resolve issues, particularly the Russia-Ukraine conflict and tensions in the Middle East.
Egypt: Eyeing Peace in the Middle East
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi expressed optimism that Trump’s return could further peace efforts in the region. He anticipated strengthened strategic ties with the U.S. and pledged collaboration toward regional stability.
India: ‘Heartiest Congratulations’
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed “heartiest congratulations” to Trump, looking forward to continued collaboration. Modi lauded Trump’s “historic election victory” and anticipated building on the successes of his previous term.
South Korea: Alliance to ‘Shine Brighter’
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol congratulated Trump, highlighting his strong leadership and its positive impact on the U.S.-South Korea alliance, which he believed would “shine brighter” under Trump’s administration.
Italy: ‘Sincere Congratulations’
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni extended “sincere congratulations,” describing the Italy-U.S. relationship as a “strategic bond” poised for further strengthening.
These congratulatory messages underscore the global anticipation of policy shifts under Trump’s renewed leadership, particularly in foreign policy and international security.
