Thursday, 5th December 2024

Trump’s Return to the White House: Reactions from the Western Balkans

In a historic political comeback, Donald Trump has been elected the 47th President of the United States, defeating Democratic candidate Kamala Harris

Preliminary results indicate Trump secured 292 electoral votes, reclaiming the presidency after a four-year hiatus.

Trump’s victory was bolstered by wins in key battleground states, including Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, Wisconsin, and Michigan. This achievement mirrors that of Grover Cleveland, the only other U.S. president to serve non-consecutive terms in the late 19th century.

Unofficial tallies show Trump leading in 28 of the 50 states, with Harris ahead in 18. Notably, Trump also clinched the popular vote, underscoring a broader Republican resurgence that saw the party secure the Senate and likely maintain a majority in the House.

In his victory speech, Trump expressed gratitude to voters and said “We will secure our borders. We will fix everything in America. We have written history today for a reason, with a political victory like no other. I will fight for all of you, for your families and your future, every day, with every breath,” he declared.

Leaders across the Western Balkans swiftly extended their congratulations:

Croatia: President Zoran Milanović expressed optimism about renewed transatlantic relations, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation between the U.S. and Croatia.


Serbia: President Aleksandar Vučić congratulated Trump, stating, “Together, we face serious challenges ahead. Serbia is committed to cooperating with the U.S. on stability, prosperity, and peace.”


Slovenia: President Nataša Pirc Musar highlighted opportunities for economic collaboration and expressed hope for strengthened bilateral ties.


North Macedonia: President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova congratulated Trump, expressing her hopes for continued stability in the Balkans and a deepening of U.S.-North Macedonia relations.


Albania: President Bajram Begaj looked forward to stronger bilateral relations and underscored the importance of U.S. support for regional security.


Montenegro: President Jakov Milatović underscored mutual goals of peace and progress, expressing optimism about future cooperation.

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