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    Merz and Trump clash as Germany loses trust in the US

    European Newsdesk Posted on

    BERLIN: Recent surveys and public opinion indicate that Germans no longer see the U.S. as a trustworthy partner, with the Trump administration playing a significant role in reshaping this perception. This shift stems from key policy changes, particularly surrounding defense and foreign relations, which have undermined Germany’s confidence in the U.S. as a reliable ally.

    A major survey from Infratest-dimap revealed that just one in six Germans view the U.S. as a trustworthy partner, with 75% expressing doubts about NATO’s ability to rely on the U.S. for protection. Trump’s stance on NATO, Ukraine, and other geopolitical issues has caused dissatisfaction among Germans, as the U.S. suspended arms deliveries to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. This change in policy has left many Europeans concerned about the future of their security.

    Despite these concerns, there is strong support for NATO itself, with 84% of Germans acknowledging its importance in securing peace in Europe. However, a growing portion of the population is in favor of European independence, with half of the respondents backing the idea of establishing a European military alliance.

    The skepticism toward the U.S. is also reflected in Germany’s shifting defense priorities. There is widespread public support for increased investment in Germany’s own military infrastructure, with a majority of CDU/CSU and SPD voters backing a plan to incur significant debt for military upgrades and infrastructure improvements. However, far-right parties, like the Alternative for Germany (AfD), oppose this approach.

    Public sentiment shows a worrying trend for the future of transatlantic relations. With the U.S. under Trump calling into question long-standing policies, many Germans are feeling less secure and more skeptical about the U.S.’s commitment to NATO and European defense.

    CDU leader Friedrich Merz, likely to become the next German chancellor, vowed Germany would do “whatever it takes” to significantly improve its military capabilities. This was Merz’s immediate reaction to the US foreign policy changes under President Donald Trump.

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