ROME, November 6. /TASS/. Donald Trump’s election as President of the United States is beneficial for resolving the Ukrainian crisis but could complicate the resolution of the crisis in the Middle East, says Aldo Ferrari, Head of the Russia, Caucasus, and Central Asia Centre at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI).
"Trump made one important statement: let’s stop the wars. And this is an extremely positive moment, but we will have to see what exactly he is going to do about that. Considering the US’s central role in supporting Ukraine, ending the war means recognizing the reality on the battlefield: a small but very real Russian conquest and the declaration of Ukraine’s neutrality," the expert told TASS.
As for the Middle East, the situation surrounding this conflict is likely to be more complicated with Trump in the White House because of his even stronger alignment with Israel, and his stance on Iran could be even harsher.
Relations with China are also unlikely to improve.
"It is important to recognize that US foreign policy only partially depends on who the president is. Overall, there is a certain continuity, even if it is driven by sheer inertia. Therefore, no radical changes should be expected," the expert believes.
Meanwhile, Ferrari sees some positive prospects for Europe, which will need to take on greater responsibility — particularly in terms of defense.
"The West has a hard time accepting the idea that the world has moved beyond the era of Western hegemony. Not only the United States but Europe as well struggles to acknowledge the loss of its central role. I do not believe that Europe benefits from total submission to American interests. Europe must achieve greater autonomy in decision-making, including with regard to its relations with Russia, and such a controversial figure — both for the United States and Europe — as Trump could push Europe towards greater independence," Ferrari said.