“The U.S. should continue to build its security policy on the trans-Atlantic relationship that has led to an unprecedented peace and prosperity for the United States and Europe. Therefore, as commander-in-chief, Donald Trump must display strength towards Russia. Putin only respects a firm and steady hand. The U.S. president must strengthen the U.S. containment and deterrent policy towards Russia to lay the ground for serious dialogue and, ultimately, restore the strategic balance in Europe.”

“The U.S. must increase support for NATO’s eastern flank, set up military bases wherever Russia is threatening the freedom and livelihood of U.S. allies, and wholeheartedly protect Ukraine against future Russian aggression.”

“The Baltics and Ukraine are close friends of the U.S., and neglecting them will have far-reaching consequences and mark the beginning of the end of the U.S.-led system.”

– Former NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, as quoted by the UNIAN news service on November 9.

“Trump is surrounded both by pro-Russian ‘doves’ like Gen. Michael Flynn and hawks who support lethal arms for Ukraine like Newt Gingrich and Sen. Jeff Sessions. Although he supports a significant arms build-up for the U.S., Trump’s inexperience in foreign affairs, and his mercurial views on national security are likely to create uncertainty. Initially, Trump is likely to pursue accommodation with Russia. At the same time, he is likely to lay down firm markers on Putin’s international adventurism. If Putin transgresses these, Trump is likely to respond as a hawk, not as a dove.”

– Adrian Karatnycky, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, as quoted in the Financial Times on November 9.