An analysis by economist Lars Feld suggests that certain consequences arising from the trade dispute between the United States and the European Union may have unexpectedly positive outcomes. Writing in a commentary for the “Handelsblatt” Feld highlights the potential for increased energy imports from the U.S. to facilitate Europe’s accelerated transition away from Russian oil and gas.
The economist also expresses a less critical view regarding additional imports of military equipment from the United States. Feld notes that the European arms industry is currently operating at maximum capacity, indicating that American-made equipment is necessary to bolster defense capabilities, particularly within Germany, in the short term.
Beyond the economic implications, Feld points to a discernible political dimension. He argues that the increased reliance on U.S. energy and armaments is fostering closer ties between the U.S. and the EU. While trade policies under previous administrations posed a risk of division, energy and defense agreements are acting as a crucial bond maintaining Western unity – a message he believes will be noted by nations such as China and Russia.