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On November 18, 2024, the John Lukacs Institute for Strategy and Politics organized a hybrid workshop to discuss the anticipated developments in transatlantic security, in light of the results of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The event took place at the Ludovika University of Public Service, where participants could join both in-person and online.
The special guest of the workshop was Professor Alexander Downes, Director of the Institute for Security and Conflict Studies at The George Washington University, who joined the discussion remotely.
Professor Downes analyzed the factors shaping U.S. grand strategy and outlined the features of a realist approach to grand strategy. The purpose of his presentation was to provide an overview of what to expect from U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the transatlantic region and Central Europe, during the second term of President Donald Trump. In doing so, Professor Downes analyzed Trump’s general foreign policy strategy, identified lessons from his first administration, and then detailed the areas that will be of particular importance in shaping U.S. foreign policy over the next four years. These areas include Ukraine, the relationship with Europe and NATO, the situation in the Middle East, and the challenges posed by China. Professor Downes also discussed the potential appointments that Donald Trump is expected to make in his new administration and how these might influence U.S. foreign policy.
Following the presentation, participants, including experts from the Hungarian Institute for International Affairs, the Danube Institute, the Oeconomus Foundation, and other independent scholars, had the opportunity to ask questions and offer comments on the topics discussed.
The workshop provided an opportunity for a deeper analysis of foreign and security policy and helped participants gain a better understanding of the potential future U.S. foreign policy strategies, particularly concerning the transatlantic region and Central Europe.