European NATO members face uncertainty over the alliance's future with Donald Trump's return to the White House. Trump criticizes NATO and has previously suggested withdrawing the U.S. from the alliance. Experts warn that Trump could demand higher defense spending from European allies, possibly beyond the 2% GDP target, while potentially reducing or halting U.S. military aid to Ukraine. Analysts highlight that Europe must prepare for a "scary ride" amid shifting dynamics within NATO, with Eastern European countries taking a more assertive defense stance.