Elections for the White House and European expectations

Europe is bracing for former President Donald Trump's possible return to power, while his Democratic rival Kamala Harris remains largely unknown. As Voice of America correspondent Lisa Bryant reports from Paris, many Europeans are concerned about the outcome of the US presidential election and the impact it may have on the future of NATO, Russia's war in Ukraine, trade relations and the future of their democracies.

Many Europeans do not have good memories of Mr. Trump's presidency. In France, the initially friendly relationship between President Emmanuel Macron and his American counterpart quickly cooled.

Tensions between Europe and Washington rose over trade, Iran, climate change and Mr Trump's approach to NATO.

If returned to power, former President Trump says he will impose high tariffs on Europe, seek negotiations to end Russia's war in Ukraine and reduce US support for Kiev. European leaders strongly oppose these positions.

"There is a sense that he is tougher, more radical and more dangerous. There are concerns about the future of Europe, NATO and the defense and solidarity needed to face Russia", says French political analyst Nicole Bacharan.

The European Union is reportedly preparing to cushion the potential impact of a Trump victory.

Across Europe, people are worried.

"Trump scares us because he expresses hatred, lies, and we think he behaves like a despot, like a dictator," says Paris resident Herve Villemont.

Analysts say Europeans largely want Vice President Kamala Harris to win, which they hope will continue the transatlantic ties that strengthened during President Biden's administration. However, analysts say those ties could weaken regardless of who wins the election, as American priorities are shifting elsewhere.

"I think a victory for Mrs. Harris would create a great relief in Europe... However, she has not said anything substantial when it comes to foreign policy... So she remains somewhat of a mystery to many Europeans," he says. Gesine Weber from the German Marshall Fund.

Meanwhile, former President Trump has some European supporters. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban says he will celebrate if Mr Trump wins.

Mr. Trump's tough language on immigration finds support among populist, far-right parties in Europe.

"I'm worried about democracy, if Trump wins this election will have an impact on Europe as well," says Carolina E. Santo, a Portuguese living in Paris.

Some analysts believe a second term for Mr Trump could prompt Europe to bolster its military and economic defences, a move critics say the bloc should have made years ago./VOA