Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer was among the first world leaders to congratulate Donald Trump on his victory in the US presidential election on Wednesday.
“The United States is an important strategic partner for Austria,” Nehammer wrote on X, adding that he looked forward to “further developing and strengthening transatlantic relations.”
Trump’s win marks what his aides are calling “the greatest political comeback” in US history, as he defeated Democrat and current Vice President Kamala Harris.
This will be Trump’s second term in office, following his 2016 victory over Hillary Clinton and subsequent loss to Joe Biden in 2020.
Austrian reactions
In Austria, Trump’s return has sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum.
The far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) expressed delight, with leader Herbert Kickl stating on Facebook, “The Americans have dealt a proper blow to the self-absorbed policies of the cold-hearted elites.”
However, other parties voiced strong concerns, calling for greater European unity in response to the election outcome.
Social Democrat (SPÖ) leader Andreas Babler warned of potential repercussions for Europe and beyond, while NEOS leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger argued it is now essential for Europe “to confidently take care of our own affairs.” Green Party leader Werner Kogler described Trump’s win as “not good news for transatlantic cooperation, global security, and climate protection,” though he remained optimistic that US democratic institutions “will survive this presidency as well.”
Meanwhile, Gabriel Felbermayr, head of the Austrian Institute of Economic Research (WIFO), said Trump’s victory poses major security challenges for Europe, raising concerns about a potential US military withdrawal.
Felbermayr warned that with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Europe must now step up its defences against “an aggressive Russia,” requiring substantial investment and expanded arms manufacturing capabilities across the EU. Economically, Felbermayr cautioned that Trump’s return could heighten trade tensions, particularly if he reintroduces higher tariffs.
In response, Felbermayr advocated for a stronger internal European market, emphasising the importance of reducing reliance on global trade partnerships as they become less dependable.
