Europe must hurry to defend itself against Russia—and Donald Trump

If donald trump returns to the White House, which version will it be? Tough-love Trump who cajoled allies to spend more on defence, reinforced nato troops on the eastern flank and began to arm Ukraine; or vindictive Trump who will act on his threats to sabotage nato? Expect sabotage.

On February 10th the near-certain Republican presidential nominee recounted how the leader of a “big country” once asked him whether he would defend an ally against the Russians, even if it was “delinquent”, by failing to spend 2% of gdp on defence. “No, I would not protect you,” Mr Trump recalled saying. “In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want.”