“People are worried,” said a European diplomat based in Washington, D.C., who, like others in this article, was granted anonymity to discuss a sensitive issue. “But I think we learned from last time that it’s important to talk constructively and confidentially rather than on social media.”

Trump’s victory is part of a broader, relentless right-wing trend on both sides of the Atlantic; leaving the pessimistic liberal left scratching their heads helplessly as the unsteady course of political history turns against them.

While there were many small-scale demonstrations across the country, WE And Englandwith more planned Over the coming weeks and months, none came close to the public outrage and enthusiasm so far. marches and riots The last time protesters colored Trump’s first few days as president-elect burnt statues from him. Instead world leaders He ran to congratulate Trump Before the election results were officially announced, even former Australian Prime Minister and current US Ambassador Kevin Rudd deleted his social media From old critical comments about the Republican.

Eline Severs, associate professor of political science at the Free University of Brussels, said there is a profound change in mood in 2024 compared to eight years ago.

“It’s not surprising to witness a certain level of political burnout and exhaustion after Kamala Harris’ massive campaign,” Severs said. “I think a lot of activists are very tired… After weeks of campaigning, this is deflation.”

Severs added that the fact that this was Trump’s second victory was also an important “psychological” factor. His first victory, which defied pollsters’ predictions, shocked much of the world. “In 2016, Americans and Europeans woke up to this surreal scenario,” Severs said. “We felt like the characters The Simpsons.”