The German Chancellor’s muted response to the United States’ recent actions concerning Venezuela has ignited a firestorm of criticism within Germany, with opposition parties accusing him of appeasement towards U.S. President Donald Trump. The escalating tensions highlight a growing rift over Germany’s foreign policy stance and its relationship with Washington.
Franziska Brantner, co-leader of the Green Party, launched a particularly scathing attack, accusing the Chancellor of “a form of reality denial and a desire to appease” the American President. While acknowledging the oppressive nature of the Maduro regime, Brantner condemned the U.S. military intervention as an act of “imperialism” particularly citing the public declaration of intent regarding Venezuelan oil reserves as deeply concerning. She emphasized the clear violation of international law and called for a firm condemnation of the action by both the German government and the European Commission.
The criticism extends beyond the Green Party. SPD MEP René Repasi echoed Brantner’s sentiments, warning that allowing powerful nations to operate above international law represents “the end of the rules-based world order and a return to the 19th century”. He insisted that Europe cannot remain silent in the face of such blatant disregard for legal frameworks.
The Free Democratic Party (FDP) also voiced concerns. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, chair of the EU Defense Committee, criticized the Chancellor’s perceived indecisiveness, urging him to consider the ramifications of his position. She proposed a more proactive approach, advocating for immediate elections in Venezuela as a pathway towards a legitimate and stable government – a step she believes serves the interests of the Venezuelan people and their aspirations for the rule of law.
Even within the Chancellor’s own CDU, voices of caution have emerged. Michael Gahler, the CDU’s foreign policy spokesperson in the European Parliament’s EPP faction, acknowledged the potential for Maduro’s removal to be a positive development but expressed deep reservations about the U.S. motivations. He pointedly stated that Washington’s actions appear driven by “pure self-interest and factual strength” suggesting a desire to divide the world into spheres of influence. He warned that such a posture risks emboldening autocratic and brutal leaders worldwide.
The controversy underscores a growing debate within Germany regarding its role in international affairs and the extent to which it should align itself with U.S. foreign policy, even when it contradicts principles of international law and multilateralism. The Chancellor’s handling of the situation has exposed vulnerabilities in Germany’s political consensus and risks isolating the nation on the international stage.