Joan Hoey opened the seminar by characterising Donald Trump’s primary focus as domestic reconstruction rather than foreign affairs. According to Hoey, Trump’s overarching objective is to consolidate domestic governance and authority, rather than to seek international legitimacy through foreign policy exploits. Nonetheless, this inward focus will inevitably shape his approach abroad—particularly his determination to curtail overseas commitments that deplete U.S. resources.
Hoey emphasised that Trump is serious about negotiating an end to conflicts such as the Russo-Ukrainian War, aiming to prevent further crises that could entangle the United States. In regions like the Balkans, the administration would likely move away from the political engineering efforts seen under President Biden, instead prioritising stability and the containment of Russian and Chinese influence.
Although the Balkans may not initially be a high priority, Hoey suggested they could re-emerge on Washington’s agenda, especially given factors such as Trump Jr.’s business interests in Serbia and wider Eastern Europe, and Elon Musk’s engagement with Romania’s elections. Bilateral relations would likely be elevated, but through a transactional lens—Balkan leaders would be expected to align with U.S. preferences in areas such as energy and defence procurement.
