Johann Wadephul, the designated Foreign Minister of Germany, believes that the close relationship between Germany and the United States under President Donald Trump is not over. In an interview with RTL and ntv on Monday, Wadephul stated, “No, I think that’s completely exaggerated. It’s quite natural that the United States of America are shifting their focus more towards the Pacific.” The main concern for them is China.
Wadephul explained, “We no longer live in the immediate post-World War II era, where Europe and the Iron Curtain, the confrontation with the Soviet Union, stood at the center of the United States.” This has changed and it is a process, according to Wadephul.
He added, “But I am very grateful. And I would also like to urge everyone to remain clear that the United States, this administration has clearly stated that they stand by NATO, clearly stated that they stand by their commitment to Europe and clearly stated that they also stand by the nuclear umbrella for Europe. We hold them accountable and feel compelled to do more ourselves for defense.”
Unlike his predecessor, Annalena Baerbock of the Greens, Wadephul sees the focus of his work as not being on a “feminist foreign policy.” “Everyone should be able to set their own priorities” said the CDU politician. In the current situation, full concentration is needed “on the major conflict areas.” This remains and is naturally the Ukraine and the Middle East conflict.
Wadephul continued, “That will also be the case, which many do not quite see, the question of nuclear negotiations, i.e., the questions of preventing nuclear armament of Iran. These are things that clearly concern me more.” “This does not mean that one should not think progressivly about the role of women in foreign policy and also in positions and roles of the Foreign Office. I am ready for that” concluded Wadephul.