"Understanding Trump's Intentions"... European Diplomats Engage in Heated 'Press Competition' in the US

Meeting with Trump Associates to Establish Communication Channel
Also Understanding the Intent Behind NATO Defense Cost-Sharing Demands

European diplomats stationed in the United States are reportedly striving to secure communication channels with former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, CNN reported on the 11th (local time). This is interpreted as an effort to understand his policy direction in preparation for the possibility of Trump's return to the White House.

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According to the report, European diplomats based in Washington D.C. have been meeting with individuals close to former President Trump at hotels, embassies, and think tanks to gather information on his policy intentions and cabinet plans, which they then relay back to their home countries.

In particular, in preparation for Trump's potential re-election, which emphasizes defense cost-sharing with NATO member countries, home governments have requested the establishment of necessary safeguards for NATO, leading to increased activity among related diplomats.

It is known that during his tenure, Trump seriously considered withdrawing from NATO. Additionally, during a campaign speech in February, he caused controversy by stating that NATO members who do not meet the "2% of GDP defense spending" requirement would be "left to do whatever Russia wants."

Due to Trump's unpredictability, a list of his close aides who might help interpret his intentions is reportedly circulating within diplomatic circles. According to CNN, this list includes former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe, former CIA Director Mike Pompeo, former White House National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien, and Keith Kellogg, former National Security Advisor to former Vice President Mike Pence.

The reason European diplomats are so eager to establish ties with Trump is also attributed to past experiences of failing to build relationships with him. In 2016, Trump defied expectations by defeating Hillary Clinton and winning the presidency. As a result, most diplomats faced Trump and his associates without prior information or interaction, struggling to adapt to his impulsive diplomatic style.

A veteran European diplomat who has served at the Washington embassy since the Trump administration told CNN, "I am not too worried because I know that with Trump, everything is decided by 'relationships' themselves," adding, "I am currently persuading my home country of the need to build a personal relationship with Trump."

Meanwhile, a source close to Trump said, "If Trump wins in November, he may contact Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky the day after the election or inauguration to start arranging talks," adding, "U.S. military aid to Ukraine could serve as leverage to bring both sides to the negotiating table."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.