As former President Donald Trump claimed victory in the US election over Kamala Harris, world leaders quickly responded with congratulatory messages, while financial markets surged in reaction to his win. Here are some of the early reactions, though the election result has yet to be formally confirmed:
Israel
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu celebrated Trump’s return, calling it “history’s greatest comeback” and a renewed chapter in the US-Israel relationship. “Your historic return to the White House offers a new beginning for America and a powerful recommitment to the great alliance between Israel and America. This is a huge victory!” said Netanyahu in an official statement.
China
As results favored Trump, China expressed hopes for continued diplomatic cooperation. “We will continue to approach and handle China-US relations based on the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation,” said foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning, adding, “We respect the choice of the American people.”
France
French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated “President Donald Trump,” voicing his intent to work together “with respect and ambition.” Macron, in a post on X, added that their relationship would “take account of your convictions, and mine…for more peace and prosperity.”
Ukraine
President Volodymyr Zelensky commended Trump on his “impressive victory,” expressing hope for “just peace in Ukraine.” Zelensky acknowledged Trump’s “peace through strength” approach, which he said “can practically bring just peace in Ukraine closer.”
NATO
NATO Chief Mark Rutte congratulated Trump, emphasizing his potential to bolster the alliance. “His leadership will again be key to keeping our Alliance strong. I look forward to working with him again to advance peace through strength through NATO,” Rutte stated.
India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Trump’s “election victory” with a social media post: “Heartiest congratulations my friend @realDonaldTrump on your historic election victory… I look forward to renewing our collaboration.”
Financial Markets
Markets reacted sharply to Trump’s apparent win, with the dollar rising, bitcoin reaching a record high, and European stocks rallying. Trump has promised to make the US a “bitcoin and cryptocurrency capital” and enlist Elon Musk for an audit on government spending. “The markets are scrambling to figure out what happens next, but for the time being, the market is pricing in a higher growth and higher inflation outlook,” commented economist Peter Esho of Esho Capital.
