A prominent figure within Germany’s Green party has launched a scathing critique of the government’s foreign policy direction, accusing it of complacency and undermining Germany’s global standing. Franziska Brantner, co-chair of the Green party, expressed deep concern over the escalating geopolitical landscape, particularly in light of the recently unveiled U.S. security strategy.
Speaking to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Brantner argued that the German government remains “in snooze mode” failing to grasp the gravity of the evolving international environment. Her remarks were delivered with a pointed reference to the U.S. strategy, which she characterized as effectively a challenge directed at Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz. Brantner alluded to an ambition within certain circles to leverage the security situation to destabilize the CDU and potentially pave the way for a shift in political power, possibly incorporating elements associated with the Alternative for Germany (AfD).
While acknowledging a period of perceived dynamism following Merz’s assumption of a more assertive role in foreign policy matters, Brantner decried this as a “brief flare-up” that ultimately failed to meet international expectations. She claims this shortfall has negatively affected Germany’s credibility and its ability to exert meaningful influence on the world stage.
Brantner underscored the critical need for Germany and the European Union to aggressively advocate for their inclusion at any future negotiations regarding the conflict in Ukraine. She employed stark imagery, warning, “Otherwise, we’ll be on the menu” alluding to the prospect of being sidelined and having decisions made without their input. Central to her demand was an insistence that any resolution must respect the self-determination, territorial integrity and security of Ukraine, explicitly rejecting any deals brokered without Ukrainian consent.
Addressing internal party discussions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Brantner affirmed the Green party’s position recognizing Israel’s right to self-defense against threats such as Hezbollah and the Houthis. Simultaneously, she voiced concerns regarding the current Israeli government’s actions, stating that “we do not close our eyes to the reality” of policies perceived to be actively obstructing the possibility of a peaceful two-state solution. The remarks highlight a delicate balancing act, attempting to reconcile support for Israel with a commitment to Palestinian rights and a viable path towards lasting peace.