World Leaders React to Donald Trump's Inauguration as 47th U.S. President
Panama and Mexico among nations responding to Trump's controversial statements regarding foreign policy.
On the inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, international responses varied widely, reflecting both concern and optimism.
Central to the controversy was Trump's statement about the Panama Canal, which he described as a "foolish gift" and suggested should be reclaimed by the U.S. In response, Panama's President José Raúl Mulino asserted the canal's sovereignty, stating it would continue under Panamanian control and was 'not a concession from anyone.'
In Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed Trump's plans to declare a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border aimed at deporting millions of undocumented immigrants.
She emphasized Mexico's supportive stance toward its expatriates and highlighted the ongoing dialogue and cooperation needed between neighbors.
Responses from other global leaders reflected a mixture of diplomacy and caution.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel expressed outrage over Trump's reinstating Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, contrasting the action with the policies of outgoing President Joe Biden.
In Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised Trump's strength, associating it with opportunities for peace, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appreciated Trump's past contributions to U.S.-Israeli relations.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed possible partnerships to strengthen economic ties despite previous threats of tariffs from Trump.
Meanwhile, European leaders' responses were diverse, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressing enthusiasm for Trump's political stance, while German Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong transatlantic alliance.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s remarks opened avenues for dialogues on the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the need for a sustainable peace respecting all legitimate interests.
Similarly, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba pointed to continued bilateral cooperation with the United States.
Overall, while Trump's inauguration prompted international leaders to reaffirm alliances and express intentions for ongoing collaboration, it also rekindled anxieties regarding diplomatic and economic tensions.