Once the protector of Germany, the US is no longer its North Star

Berlin facing stark reality of trade wars, military uncertainty and shift to far-right

- Markus Ziener

BERLIN — For decades, the US was more than just a powerful ally to Germany. It was the cornerstone of Germany's post-war rebirth. But that position is rapidly crumbling.

America established the Marshall Plan in 1948, making available billions to rebuild the war-torn country. It helped resurrect the nation's democratic institutions, provided the military umbrella under which Germany thrived and later supported reunification at a time when France and Britain were anything but forthcoming. The US was not just a partner, it was, for many, the very definition of Western security and stability.

However, the US under Mr Donald Trump's second presidency is no longer speaking the language of partnership.

Europe is increasingly portrayed as an adversary, Nato as a liability, and Russia as a misunderstood peer rather than a threat. What's more, a full-scale transatlantic trade war looms, triggered by sweeping new tariffs aimed at European products, particularly in the automotive industry. For Germany, a country not only deeply embedded in global trade but also Europe's biggest car manufacturer, this shift feels existential.

So far, Germany has deferred its response to the European Union, which has presented a robust plan for retaliation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that while the EU prefers negotiation to confrontation, it is prepared to implement countermeasures if necessary.

The proposed strategy includes tariffs on approximately US$28 billion (S$37.6 billion) worth of US goods, targeting sectors such as steel, aluminium, textiles, home appliances and agricultural products.

WILL I STILL BE WELCOME IN AMERICA?