World leaders expressed optimism and hope following Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States, focusing on the future and strengthening partnerships.
The event, which marked the former president’s return to the White House, is a turning point for the future of international affairs as Israel and Hamas agreed to cease-fires ahead of Trump’s return.
Trump held several meetings before his inauguration and openly commented on the need for peace before returning to office.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted to X in support of Trump entering his second term. saying, “I congratulate President Trump and the American people on the inauguration of the 47th President of the United States. Today is a day of change and also a day of hope for the resolution of many problems, including global challenges.”
Zelenskyy said Trump demonstrates decisiveness, and his policy of promoting peace through strength offers a chance to “strengthen American leadership and achieve a long-term and just peace, which is the top priority.” He noted the need to work together and wished the incoming president success.
Trump has been vocal about his displeasure with the amount of financial aid being sent to the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the burden placed on U.S. taxpayers.
Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu took to social media to congratulate Trump, saying under his leadership, “the best days of our alliance are yet to come.”
He continued, “I look forward to working with you to return the remaining hostages, to destroy Hamas’ military capabilities and end its political rule in Gaza, and to ensure that Gaza never again poses a threat to Israel.”
The U.S. and Israel maintain a strong alliance even amid the ongoing Israeli- Hamas conflict and shifting U.S. public opinion regarding Palestinians.
Federal Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz gave a nod to Trump, posting, “Today President Donald Trump takes office. Congratulations! The U.S. is our closest ally and the aim of our policy is always a good transatlantic relationship. The EU, with 27 members and more than 400 million people, is a strong union.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau congratulated Trump, posting, “Canada and the U.S. have the world’s most successful economic partnership. We have the chance to work together again — to create more jobs and prosperity for both our nations.”
Trump previously announced his plans to impose a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada, prompting Trudeau to say that if “push comes to shove,” Canada is ready.
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer congratulated the returning President, saying, “The special relationship between the UK and the US will continue to flourish for years to come.”
Giorgia Meloni, who was in attendance, posted her best wishes to Trump on social media, saying, “Italy will always be committed to consolidating the dialogue between the United States and Europe as an essential pillar for the stability and growth of our communities.”
Though mainly positive reactions, French President Emmanuel Macron delivered his annual New Year’s speech to the French military at the Army Digital and Cyber Support Command, calling for Europe to “wake up.” Macron said in his speech that Europe needs to “bolster” its defense capabilities and reduce its need for American military equipment.
Macron’s speech coincided with Trump’s inauguration.
