German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) has widely criticized the foreign policy of US President Donald Trump, targeting his attempt to link US aid for Ukraine to the use of rare earths by the country. Speaking to the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland”, Scholz condemned Trump’s approach, saying, “The Ukraine is being attacked and we stand by it, without expecting anything in return. That should be the attitude of everyone.”
Furthermore, he threatened a swift reaction from Brussels in the event of US tariffs against the EU, stating, “Tariffs are not good for anyone. Should the US still take such steps, the European Commission is capable of reacting within hours.” Scholz emphasized that he would continue to work towards a good relationship with Washington, as the US is Germany’s most important ally. As the Chancellor of the largest EU country, he sees it as his duty to “stand up straight” when a smaller partner is being challenged, as exemplified by Trump’s threats to occupy Greenland.