US President Donald Trump topped Politico's ranking of the most influential people in Europe for the coming year 2026.
Usually, at the end of each year, the publication compiles a similar ranking, which it calls 'Class of Next Year'. It includes leaders from Europe and the world who have influenced events on the European continent during the current year. And who will continue to do so next year.
Trump is not a European leader. But he plays an important role in the process of finding a solution to the conflict in Ukraine. And indirectly influenced Europe's aspirations to become more independent in strategic terms, notes Politico. With some of his actions, he redefined the politics of the Old Continent, particularly in strengthening defense and security.
The US president criticized the situation in Europe regarding political correctness and migration policies on the Old Continent. In addition, Trump became close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and imposed tariffs on the EU.
According to Politico, Trump's shadow will continue to loom heavily over European capitals next year. His actions even managed to influence national policies in some European countries, the publication comments.
In the top ten of the 'Class of 2026' ranking are Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen(?!?!?!?!), Friedrich Merz, Marine Le Pen and Putin. They are in positions 2 to 5, respectively. From sixth to tenth place follow Nigel Farage, Ursula von der Leyen, Mark Rutte, Giorgia Meloni and Keir Starmer.
Volodymyr Zelensky, (14th) and French President Emmanuel Macron (down in 19th place) fall out of the top ten. Twentieth is former Italian Prime Minister and former Governor of the European Central Bank Mario Draghi.
There are a total of 28 places in the ranking. It also includes Viktor Orbán (12), Kaja Kallas (16), Andrej Babiš (21), the President of Finland Alexander Stubb (13), Polish President Karol Nawrocki (23), the President of the World Football Federation (FIFA) Gianni Infantino (28) and others.
Last year's ranking was topped by Italian Prime Minister Meloni, recalls the Italian media 'Sky TG 24' today.