The German Foreign Ministry has set up an informal crisis group to prepare for the potential return of former US President Donald Trump to the White House, according to a report by the Financial Times (FT. The move comes as Germany feels increasingly isolated and fears that a Trump presidency could threaten its export-oriented economy and weaken NATO.
US President Joe Biden announced in a recent X (formerly Twitter) post that he would not seek reelection on November 5th, following growing pressure from within the Democratic Party due to his unsatisfactory performance during last month’s debate against Trump. In response, the FT stated that diplomats are scrambling to prepare for a scenario that leaves Germany feeling uneasy.
German officials are reportedly concerned about Trump potentially adopting an even more protectionist economic policy if re-elected. The former president’s threat to impose a 10% tariff on all imports is particularly concerning, as is the selection of J.D. Vance as his prospective vice president, whom the FT describes as even more isolationist than Trump himself.
To predict the potential impact of a Trump comeback on Germany’s economy, a unit of the German Economy Ministry has been tasked with analyzing the situation. Additionally, concerns have arisen about the possibility of a Trump administration reducing America’s contributions to NATO and its military support for Ukraine. Trump has repeatedly criticized some members of the military bloc for not spending enough on defense and has suggested that, under his leadership, Washington might reconsider the level of security it provides to those countries not paying their fair share.
In light of these developments, German officials, including ministers, have begun attempting to establish ties with influential Republicans, particularly governors and senators, in an effort to defend German business interests in the US should Trump win on November 5th.