Global leaders react to Trump’s second term inauguration

Leaders from across the globe offered reactions ranging from cautious optimism to outright enthusiasm following Donald Trump’s inauguration for a second term as president of the United States on Monday.

The responses underscored the wide-ranging global stakes tied to U.S. leadership under Trump, known for his assertive and unpredictable political style.

In his inaugural address, Trump pledged to reshape U.S. domestic and foreign policy, signing a flurry of executive orders shortly after taking the oath of office. The international community took note, with leaders emphasizing the importance of collaboration while voicing their expectations for his new administration.

Europe welcomes dialogue, expresses hopes for unity

European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen expressed a readiness to work with Trump’s administration to tackle global challenges. The U.N.’s climate chief, Simon Stiell, left the door open for U.S. re-engagement with the Paris Agreement after Trump reiterated his intention to withdraw.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Trump, calling for dialogue and emphasizing the importance of a lasting peace in Ukraine.

“Its goal should not be a brief truce … but a lasting peace based on respect for the legitimate interests of all people,” Putin said.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed confidence that Trump’s leadership would “turbo-charge defense spending and production” within the alliance.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirmed the value of the transatlantic relationship, stating that “the U.S. is our closest ally, and the aim of our policy is always a good transatlantic relationship.”

In Italy, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted the shared challenges faced by her country and the U.S., noting that the two nations could “build a future of prosperity and security.” She also emphasized Italy’s role in strengthening dialogue between the U.S. and Europe.

Middle East anticipates peace initiatives

Middle Eastern leaders also expressed hopes for stability under Trump’s renewed leadership. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas reiterated his commitment to achieving peace through a two-state solution. Syria’s leader Ahmed al-Sharaa described Trump as “the leader to bring peace to the Middle East and restore stability to the region.”

The Gulf states voiced their optimism as well. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his congratulations while emphasizing the importance of promoting regional peace and stability. Leaders from Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman echoed similar sentiments, stressing their desire for enhanced cooperation with the U.S.

Americas and Asia stress collaboration

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called for continued cooperation despite potential economic tensions. “We are strongest when we work together,” he said, addressing Trump’s threats to impose steep tariffs on Canadian imports.

In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized “dialogue, respect, and cooperation” as the cornerstones of U.S.-Mexico relations. Meanwhile, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hoped for a successful Trump administration, noting that “Americans continue to be the historical partner of Brazil.”

From Asia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Trump as a “dear friend” and looked forward to working closely to “shape a better future for the world.” Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba focused on reinforcing the “enduring Japan-U.S. partnership” in pursuit of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Other notable responses

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared his intent to elevate U.S.-Israel relations to “greater heights,” while Hungary’s nationalist leader Viktor Orban called Trump’s return an opportunity for Hungary to “shine” on the global stage.

Panama, however, responded sharply to Trump’s pledge to “take back” the Panama Canal, with President Jose Raul Mulino reaffirming that “the canal is and will remain Panama’s.”