ISTANBUL

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has congratulated Donald Trump on his apparent victory in Tuesday’s US elections.

"I congratulate my friend Donald Trump, who won the presidential election in the US after a great struggle and was reelected," Erdogan said on X Wednesday, referring to multiple media outlets projecting Trump’s return to the White House after four years under Joe Biden, the current president.

In this new era, Erdogan said he hopes Turkish-US relations grow stronger and that regional and global crises and wars, especially the one in Palestine and the Russia-Ukraine war, will come to an end.

"I believe that more efforts will be made for a fairer world. I hope the elections will be auspicious for the friendly and allied people of the US and all humanity," he added.

European leaders on Wednesday congratulated Republican candidate and former US President Donald Trump on his projected election victory.

"Congratulations President Donald Trump. Ready to work together as we have done for four years," French President Emmanuel Macron said on X.

"With your convictions and with mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity," he added.

"Congratulations President-elect Trump on your historic election victory. I look forward to working with you in the years ahead," British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement.

“As the closest of allies," the UK and US stand shoulder to shoulder in "defense of our shared values of freedom, democracy and enterprise," he said.

"From growth and security to innovation and tech, I know that the UK-US special relationship will continue to prosper on both sides of the Atlantic for years to come," added Starmer.

Congratulating Trump, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on X: "For a long time, Germany and the US have been working together successfully promoting prosperity and freedom on both sides of the Atlantic. We will continue to do so for the wellbeing of our citizens."

“On behalf of myself and the Italian Government, my most sincere congratulations to the President-elect of the United States, Donald Trump,” Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also said on X.

“Italy and the United States are ‘brother’ nations, linked by an unshakable alliance, common values, and a historic friendship. It is a strategic bond, which I am sure we will now strengthen even further,” she added.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte also congratulated Trump, saying: "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."

In his first term as president, in 2017-2021, Trump was known for being sharply critical of the long-standing NATO alliance.

“I congratulate @realDonaldTrump to electoral success. The USA is an important strategic partner for Austria,” Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said on X.

“We look forward to further expanding and strengthening our transatlantic relations together in order to successfully meet global challenges," he added.

Hungary, the Netherlands, EU Commission head

Hailing Trump’s election victory as the "biggest comeback," Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on X: "A much needed victory for the World!"

Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof also congratulated Trump, saying on X: "The United States is an important ally for the Netherlands, both bilaterally and in international contexts such as NATO. I look forward to our close cooperation on the shared interests between the USA and the Netherlands."

Albanian Premier Edi Rama said on X, also referring to current President Joe Biden: "It was a true honor to work alongside the 46th President of the United States to strengthen the bond between our two countries. I look forward to the great privilege of working with the 47th President to further enhance our partnership for peace, prosperity and further progress."

Congratulating Trump, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis wrote on X: "Romania is a strong and committed Strategic Ally of the US. Through our joint efforts, we will bring peace and prosperity for both our countries and beyond, defending our common interests."

Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store also congratulated Trump, stressing: "The US is Norway's most important partner and ally. I look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with the new Trump administration."

EU Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen said on X: "I warmly congratulate Donald J. Trump. The EU and the US are more than just allies. We are bound by a true partnership between our people, uniting 800 million citizens."

"So let's work together on a strong transatlantic agenda that keeps delivering for them," she added.

European Council President Charles Michel congratulated Trump, saying the EU and US "have an enduring alliance and a historic bond. As allies and friends, the EU looks forward to continuing our constructive cooperation."

"The EU will pursue its course in line with the strategic agenda as a strong, united, competitive and sovereign partner while defending the rules-based multilateral system," he added.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, congratulating Trump, said on X: "Europe is ready. To cooperate as we address unprecedented geopolitical challenges. To keep the transatlantic bond strong, rooted in our shared values of freedom, human rights, democracy & open markets."

"The people of the United States have spoken and Ireland will work to deepen and strengthen the historic and unbreakable bonds between our people and our nations in the years ahead," said Prime Minister of Ireland Simon Harris.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb congratulated the newly elected US president, expressing Finland’s anticipation to "work closely with you and your administration on the major challenges of our time."

"Finland and the U.S. are strong allies across numerous areas, including security, technology, and business," Stubb said on X.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson congratulated Trump, expressing eagerness to strengthen US-Sweden relations.

"I look forward to working together and continuing our strong ties as friends and allies," he wrote on X.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also congratulated Trump, expressing commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and the transatlantic partnership.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis congratulated Trump, noting: "Greece looks forward to further deepening the strategic partnership between our two countries and working together on important regional and global issues."

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen congratulated Trump on his election, stressing the need to maintain close US-Denmark cooperation and strengthen the transatlantic bond.

"The United States is our most important ally. We must maintain the close cooperation between the U.S. and Denmark and continue to strengthen the transatlantic bond," Frederiksen said in a statement.

She also highlighted the importance of reinforcing defense cooperation, especially in light of Russia's aggressive actions, and emphasized continued support for Ukraine's fight for freedom.

Frederiksen expressed concern about China's role in the war, saying: "It would not be possible for Russia to continue the war in Ukraine without the help of China."

Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics congratulated Trump, emphasizing Latvia's commitment to strengthening "bilateral relations and transatlantic partnership."

"Europe needs strong US and US needs strong Europe. Latvia is and will be a strong and reliable partner of the US," he stated on X.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis congratulated Trump on his "historic re-election," stressing Lithuania’s commitment to freedom and the enduring friendship between the two nations.

"Our nations' long and continuing friendship will overcome all our enemies," he said on X.

Swiss Defense Minister Viola Amherd congratulated Trump and his Vice President-elect J.D. 

Vance, emphasizing Switzerland’s role as a “long-standing and trusted partner” of the US.

"Our economic and scientific relations are excellent. We look forward to continuing to work together on the basis of our shared values and interests," Amherd said.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna also congratulated the newly elected president, emphasizing a desire to strengthen US-Estonia relations and ensure security and prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.

Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar congratulated Trump on X following his declared victory over Kamala Harris in the US presidential election, saying: "Slovenia is ready to work with President Trump."

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic also sent his congratulations and said: “Congratulations to Donald Trump on a convincing victory and second term as the U.S. President. I look forward to our cooperation and further advancing relations between Croatia and the USA.”

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic sent his congratulations to Trump on his election victory, expressing Serbia’s commitment to collaboration with the US.

"Congratulations on the victory. Together we face the serious challenges ahead. Serbia is committed to cooperation with the USA on stability, prosperity, and peace," Vucic stated on X.

Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani highlighted the enduring partnership between Kosovo and the US, affirming: “The U.S. remains Kosovo’s steadfast partner and indispensable ally. I look forward to working with the new Administration to further deepen our unique bond and strategic alliance."

Residents of Bosnia Herzegovina's Republika Srpska gathered in Banja Luka to celebrate Trump’s victory.

"Donald Trump’s victory is significant for Republika Srpska," said Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, who wore a “Make America Great Again” hat, telling the crowd: “This is also our victory."

African leaders on Wednesday congratulated Republican candidate Donald Trump on his victory in Tuesday’s US presidential elections.

The presidents of South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Nigeria, Eritrea, Somalia, Guinea Bissau, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Djibouti, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Rwanda have all sent congratulatory messages to Trump.

Congratulating Trump, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said: “I look forward to continuing the close and mutually beneficial partnership between our two nations across all domains of our cooperation.”

“In the global arena, we look forward to our Presidency of the G20 in 2025, where we will work closely with the US who will succeed us in the G20 Presidency in 2026,” he added.

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa wrote on X: “Congratulations to President-elect (Donald Trump) on your election victory. The world needs more leaders who speak for the people. Zimbabwe stands ready to work with you and the American people to build a better, more prosperous and more peaceful world."

Calls for global peace

In his congratulatory message, Eritrea’s President Isaias Afwerki said that Trump's election "has occurred at a very crucial time when global peace is of paramount importance more than ever before," according to a statement posted on X by Information Minister Yemane G. Meskel.

Afwerki said in this respect, "We extend to you our best wishes for success in your pronounced position on this critical objective."

He also expressed his hopes that Trump's "election will open a new chapter of fruitful and constructive ties of cooperation between Eritrea and the US."

In his message, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said he looks forward to continuing their strong collaboration and partnership to advance peace, security, and common prosperity for the two nations.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu also extended his heartfelt congratulations to Trump, saying he looks forward to strengthening the ties between his country and the US amid the complex challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world.

“Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens,” Tinubu was quoted as saying in a statement from Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser.

“Acknowledging the United States' influence, power, and position in determining the trend and course of global events, the Nigerian leader trusts that President Trump will bring the world closer to peace and prosperity,” the statement added.

Guinea Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo also congratulated Trump on his projected victory.

“I wish him every success for his mandate and look forward to strengthening relations between our two countries with him. May this new mandate bring peace and progress,” he wrote on his official X account.

Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema said: “We look forward to strengthening our bilateral cooperation & deepening our ties.”

Congratulating Trump, Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye said on X: “I look forward to further strengthening the Burundi-USA cooperation.”

Extending congratulations to Trump, Kenyan President William Ruto underscored Kenya’s commitment to advancing cooperation on issues of mutual interest, highlighting areas like trade, technology, and security.

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio and Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh also conveyed their best wishes to Trump, noting a shared interest in deepening diplomatic relations.

As Trump prepares to take office in the first of January next year, the leaders emphasized their shared goals, particularly fostering global economic growth and regional stability.

Gabon transition government head Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema said the two countries share “values of cooperation and peace.”

“I am convinced that this new mandate will provide the opportunity to deepen our relations for the good of our peoples,” he said on X.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame said Trump's "clear message has been that the United States should be a partner of choice that attracts by the force of its example, rather than by imposing its views and ways of life on others."

“I therefore look forward to working with you for the common benefit of both our countries in the years ahead,” said Kagame, who recently won re-election as president.

Arab leaders congratulated Republican candidate Donald Trump on Wednesday for winning US elections.

Trump claimed victory in the Nov. 5 elections after projections that he had defeated Democrat Kamala Harris to become the 47th president of the country.

"Congratulations to President-Elect Donald Trump on winning the US presidential election," Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani said on his X account.

Tamim said he looks forward "to working together again to strengthen our strategic relationship and partnership, and to advancing our shared efforts in promoting security and stability both in the region and globally."

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also congratulated Trump on his electoral victory, stressing that he looks forward to achieving peace and stability in the region, and to work together in achieving the interests of the Egyptian and American peoples.

Jordanian King Abdullah II also extended his congratulations to President-elect Trump, according to a post on his X account.

The monarch said he looks forward to working with Trump "again to bolster Jordan’s longstanding partnership with the United States, in service of regional and global peace and stability for all."

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, whose country is facing a deadly Israeli military campaign, also congratulated Trump on his reelection.

President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan sent a congratulatory message to Trump on his victory in the US presidential elections.

Bin Zayed said his country looks forward "to continuing to work with our partners in the US towards a future of opportunity, prosperity, and stability for all."

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also joined Arab leaders in congratulating Trump on his electoral win.

"We are confident that the United States will support, under your leadership, the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people," Abbas said in a congratulatory cable cited by the official news agency Wafa.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani also hailed Trump’s electoral victory, underlining his country’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with the US in various fields.

In a message sent to Trump and published by Morocco's official news agency, King Mohammed VI congratulated him, highlighting the two countries' shared values and strategic partnership.

“Winning this election is a recognition of your patriotic spirit and an endorsement of your commitment to defending the interests of the US, a key ally,” he said.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also made a phone call to Trump to congratulate him on his victory in the US presidential election.

Bin Salman expressed Saudi Arabia’s eagerness to further strengthen the historical and strategic relationship between the two countries, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Ukraine's leadership on Wednesday congratulated former US President Donald Trump on his victory in the presidential election.

"Congratulations to (Donald Trump) on his impressive election victory!" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X.

The Ukrainian leader noted his "great" meeting with Trump in September and said that they discussed the Ukraine-US strategic partnership, "the Victory Plan, and ways to put an end to Russian aggression against Ukraine."

Zelenskyy said he appreciates Trump’s commitment to the “peace through strength” approach in global affairs, expressing it to be the principle that can bring a just peace in Ukraine closer.

China on Wednesday congratulated Donald Trump on his victory in the 2024 US presidential election.

"We respect the choice of the American people and congratulate Mr. Trump on being elected as president of the United States," the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Trump has thanked Americans "for the extraordinary honor of being elected your 47th president and your 45th president," referring to his earlier term in office, 2017-2021, before Joe Biden won four years as the 46th US president.

"This is a magnificent victory for the American people that will allow us to make America great again," he said.

The win makes Trump only the second US president to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland, who served two separate terms in the late 1800s, with President Benjamin Harrison in between.

The 2024 election also benefited the Republican party as a whole, as they shifted the balance of power away from Democrats by taking control of the US Senate 52 to 42, with several races still being counted, but only 51 needed to take the majority.

Control of the House of Representatives is yet still to be determined, as several races have not yet been called. So far, Republicans lead Democrats by a narrow margin, 210 to 181, with the magic number of 218 needed to take control of Congress.

On the state level, Republicans also fared well, with the balance of power now being 27 Republican governors to 23 Democratic governors.