Brussels sees no US-EU improvement after Republican defeat

Brussels diplomats see no prospect of improved US-EU relations after the Republican midterm defeat, with one stating "not getting worse would already be a win." The US ambassador to the EU continued his critical stance, mocking the European Commission's failure to lower energy prices and urging delayed climate rules. Optimists cite Trump's moderate reaction, while pessimists fear he will redirect anger toward the EU and NATO after losing domestic power. Concerns include Trump's pro-Russia stance ahead of Ukraine talks in Abu Dhabi and a possible US troop withdrawal from Europe, with up to a third of 80,000 soldiers potentially leaving. Most agree the relationship will never return to pre-Trump levels, prompting the EU to pursue greater independence in defense, tech, energy, and economy.