US election: Brussels worried about shifting security, defense balance

Luigi Scazzieri, transatlantic relations expert at the Centre for European Reform said: "Trump has also made no secret of his dislike for NATO and belief that Europeans are freeriding on the US for security" and a Trump victory would divide the EU and put it under pressure.

On the other hand, a Kamala Harris victory would likely mean continuity with current Biden administration policies, according to Scazzieri.

"Harris will mean continuity with Biden's policies. She believes in the value of alliances and values European allies -- so NATO would be safe," said Scazzieri. He noted, however, that trade tensions would likely persist as Harris would likely continue Biden's protectionist policies.

..."The EU is not prepared for Trump," said Scazzieri. He noted the Commission has prepared possible retaliatory tariff lists but the "EU can do little to prepare for Trump's policies in security. It will be a 'wait and see' approach."