Europe is discussing the aftermath of Trump. What will the midterm election defeat bring?

Although the heavy defeat of US President Donald Trump's party in the midterm elections was welcomed in European capitals that have long felt pressure on transatlantic relations, it did not offer a clear assurance that there would be a fundamental change in Washington's basic foreign policy route.

Diplomats in Brussels, who have left behind a period full of customs tariffs, harsh rhetoric against Ukraine and tensions over Greenland, consider the change of balance in Congress as a positive signal at the first stage.

"There is relief here that this is the beginning of the end of the Trump era, and there is no one happier than the Europeans," a senior diplomat told French news agency AFP of sentiment on the continent. he conveyed in his words.

The initial expectation in the European Union (EU) lobbies is that the victory of the Democrats will act as a brake on Trump.

"The hope is for some confidence to return to the US system, with its checks and balances," a second senior EU diplomat said. he said.

However, the view that Washington's tendency to withdraw into itself will continue is also important.

A third diplomat stated that the United States could become even more introverted, saying, "The United States will focus on the internal political struggle between the White House and Congress." he said.

The same official pointed out that Trump still has strong executive powers in the international arena and continues to ignore Congress.

Despite the election results, Europe wishes to see a change in Washington's approach to the Ukraine war.

In the face of Trump, who blamed Ukraine before the election and got closer to Russia in an effort to end the war, there is now a stronger pro-Kiev majority in Congress.

However, hopes for Washington to return to its position as Ukraine's biggest financial supporter, as in the past, remain quite low.

Authorities in Brussels are focused on closing the 70 billion euro deficit that is expected to appear in Kiev's budget next year.

While European leaders are putting pressure on allies such as Britain, Canada and Japan to meet this deficit, they do not expect a serious flow of resources from the United States.

The complete removal of customs tariffs, one of the most difficult issues between Europe and the White House, is seen as a remote possibility.

Current polling by the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) think tank found that only a quarter of American voters approve of completely eliminating tariffs on EU products.

In addition, following Trump's reactions to the EU's efforts to limit technology giants, Democrats' promise of control over Silicon Valley creates limited optimism in Brussels.

"We will not step back from enforcing our digital rules and do not expect any change on these issues with the White House," an EU official said. he said.

The same official added that they expect more space to be opened for cooperation with the Congress on common global topics such as artificial intelligence and cyber security.