Belgian PM emphasizes EU autonomy amid Trump's possible return to US presidency

BRUSSELS -- Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on Tuesday urged the European Union (EU) to prepare for the possibility of former US President Donald Trump's return to presidency.

"If 2024 brings us America First again, it will be more than ever 'Europe on its own.' We should, as Europeans, not fear that prospect," said De Croo, whose country is holding the rotating presidency of the EU Council, addressing the European Parliament.

De Croo encouraged the EU to embrace this potential outcome of the upcoming US election by strengthening solidarity. Calling for a "stronger, more sovereign, more self-reliant" Europe that delivers and makes a difference in people's lives, he pledged that the Belgian presidency "wants to contribute to this effort."

In outlining the blueprint for Belgium's presidency, De Croo admitted the biggest challenge ahead is keeping European economy "strong and vibrant."

Ten months before the US presidential election kicks off, election campaigns are already underway in the country. US media outlets estimated that Trump will win the Iowa Republican caucuses on Monday night.

Trump, who served in the White House from early 2017 to early 2021, is known for his slogan, "Make America Great Again."