The Rest Is Politics 453. Trump’s Far Right Allies in Germany: Is History Repeating Itself?
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Sep 25, 2025 
Gerald Knaus, an Austrian social scientist and migration policy expert, joins the discussion on Europe's far-right surge. He examines the AfD's threat to Germany's post-war democracy and traces its ties to international far-right networks. Knaus warns of the erosion of democratic norms in the wake of Trump-style tactics and discusses the implications of supporting nationalists amid European rearmament. He also highlights international law's critical role in addressing conflicts like Gaza, underlining the need to defend liberal institutions.
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AfD As An Anti‑Postwar Movement
- The AfD is a rapidly rising identitarian party aiming to undo Germany's post‑war Western integration.
- Its leadership, exemplified by Björn Höcke, openly advocates remigration and anti‑EU positions.
Höcke's Radical Program
- Höcke's rhetoric includes explicit calls to reduce immigrant populations and prefers Putin as an ally over the EU.
- Such positions would fundamentally threaten neighbouring countries' security and European institutions.
Germany As The Strategic Prize
- Germany's size makes it the linchpin of the European post‑war order and thus a prime target for foreign actors.
- Russia, MAGA figures and others back forces that would weaken EU cohesion by supporting parties like the AfD.
