What happens to us now? Part II: How the outcome of the U.S. election affects transatlantic relations and the German government crisis.
Dec 8, 2024
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Constance Chucholowski, head of the Berlin chapter of Democrats Abroad, and Jeremy Shapiro, research director at the European Council on Foreign Relations, dive into the potential shifts in U.S.-European relations after the recent election. They analyze how a second Trump term could complicate negotiations over Ukraine and increase trade tensions. The duo also discusses the implications of ambassadorial appointments and European defense strategies against Russian threats, while highlighting challenges for Americans abroad and the broader impacts on democracy and journalistic freedom.
The potential shift towards a transactional U.S. foreign policy under Trump may jeopardize long-standing transatlantic alliances and commitments to shared values.
Europe faces uncertainty in its defense strategies and NATO alignment, prompting nations to reconsider their independent policies amid U.S. unilateral interests.
Deep dives
Immediate Changes in U.S.-European Relations
The Trump administration is likely to prioritize an expedited negotiation process to end the war in Ukraine, claiming a commitment to resolve the conflict within a very short time frame. This shift could create significant tensions within transatlantic relations, especially for countries like Poland, which must navigate their allegiance to both the U.S. and the reluctance to negotiate with Russia. Additionally, a renewed trade conflict is anticipated as the Trump administration plans to impose tariffs on China and other nations, prompting a potential European response in the form of retaliatory tariffs. Such economic maneuvers signify a dramatic shift in how trade and military negotiations are conducted between the U.S. and its European allies.
Transactional Nature of Future Diplomacy
Under Trump's leadership, U.S. foreign policy will likely evolve into a transactional relationship, prioritizing personal interests over shared values and historical ties that have typically characterized the U.S.-Germany bond. This shift suggests a future where decisions impacting international relations are made based on direct benefits to Trump and his associates, rather than collective interests of the alliance. Experts express concern regarding the implications of this governance model, as it risks reducing complex international alliances to mere negotiations over economic or strategic gains. Over time, if this transactional approach continues, it could fundamentally alter the fabric of transatlantic relationships, creating an unpredictable diplomatic environment.
Internal Pressures and Political Dynamics
The upcoming Trump administration may trigger a profound sense of uncertainty within Europe, as countries grapple with potential shifts in U.S. policy that seem to favor unilateral interests over multilateral cooperation. Questions surrounding NATO's cohesion and the U.S. commitment to European security loom large, leading many to speculate whether European nations will need to bolster their own defense mechanisms against various threats. Such developments could fuel a stronger push for European countries to adopt more independent defense policies, though skepticism remains about their willingness to act without U.S. backing. Changes in leadership in Germany and throughout Europe will likely be impacted by how they navigate this evolving relationship with the United States under Trump.
Long-Term Implications for U.S. Credibility
The potential for a second Trump term raises significant concerns about the overall credibility of the United States on the global stage, particularly regarding its commitment to democratic values and international cooperation. Observers suggest that historical patterns of U.S. leadership may falter, leading to diminished trust globally, while creating opportunities for authoritarian regimes to gain traction. The shifting perspectives on the U.S. as a 'beacon of democracy' could alter how countries view alliances and collaboration, with many looking for alternative partnerships. Ultimately, the path the U.S. takes under Trump could have lasting repercussions on its role in world politics, especially in relation to maintaining its strength as an ally.
Host Soraya Sarhaddi Nelson talks with Berlin Chapter President Constance Chucholowski of Democrats Abroad and Research Director Jeremy Shapiro of the European Council on Foreign relations about the aftermath of one of the most tumultuous elections in U.S. history, including in Germany, the EU and Ukraine.
The live discussion, recorded on Dec. 2 via Zoom featured an audience from both sides of the Atlantic from FAWCO, an international network of independent volunteer clubs and associations in 28 countries and the American Women’s Club in Berlin.
Produced by Eden Brockman and Soraya Sarhaddi Nelson.
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