Europe Braces for More Turbulence with Trump After Midterms

European officials fear Donald Trump could become a "angry duck" after the US midterm elections, potentially escalating trade conflicts and applying more pressure on Europe. The concern centers on Trump's ability to maintain control over foreign policy regardless of election outcomes. Bernd Lange, chair of the EU trade committee, told Politico that Trump might "dig in his heels" if he loses congressional support. Trump retains authority over tariffs, trade agreements, and NATO relations, including threats to withdraw US troops from Europe. He may also increase pressure on the EU to reduce Ukraine support and resume Russian gas purchases. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed foreign policy remains under presidential control, while German security expert Wolfgang Ischinger warned Europe should expect no improvement in transatlantic relations, predicting "the exact opposite."