German CDU Foreign Policy Expert Warns Against Misinterpreting Trump’s Statements
German CDU foreign policy expert Norbert Röttgen has expressed caution regarding the potential introduction of high US import tariffs on European products, as announced by US President-elect Donald Trump.
“We should take Trump’s statements seriously, not only because he will soon hold the most powerful office in the world, but also because of the shock value he aims to achieve” Röttgen told the Rheinische Post. “Trump uses the instrument of maximal demands to shock and bring about change.”
Röttgen, a former chair of the Bundestag’s Foreign Affairs Committee, believes that high tariffs on imported goods would have enormous price increases for the US, which would contradict Trump’s campaign promise to reduce inflation and living costs in the US.
“If such a scenario were to occur, the EU Commission, which has the competence to address this, would be well-prepared” Röttgen said.
Röttgen also emphasized the importance of a robust transatlantic relationship, stating that Germany and the EU should not adopt a confrontational or submissive approach in dealing with the new US administration.
“We should stand up to Trump confidently and not engage in constant confrontation or devotion. It is in our interest to maintain the transatlantic relationship, and we should make this clear and support it by investing more in our own security and the common defense alliance” Röttgen said.
Germany, with its significant trade deficit with the US, is a focal point for Trump’s concerns. “Trump, in his own interests, already views us as a trade competitor, and if he sees us as a security burden as well, it will enrage him even more” Röttgen said. “Out of self-interest and alliance loyalty, we must simply do more for defense. There is no alternative.