How is Brussels preparing for the possibility of a Trump victory in the US presidential elections?

The European Commission has formed a dedicated group of officials to develop a strategy to respond to the consequences of the US presidential election, writes the FT. The EC is preparing for Donald Trump’s possible return to the White House and determining what impact Kamala Harris’ presidency may have on the EU. The team comprises a small number of officials representing the commission’s directorates and is addressing issues such as trade, competition, and foreign affairs.

Brussels worries that Trump could use his second term to impose painful tariffs on EU exports, end US military and financial support to Ukraine, and force Kyiv to agree to Moscow’s terms to end the war.

The EU is also concerned that Trump could pull the US out of NATO or significantly undermine mutual defense provisions for countries he believes are not spending enough on defense.

The question of whether EU taxpayers should make a larger contribution to Ukraine’s defense is also being debated.