Steinmeier Urges Europe to Counter Ruthless Strategies of Russia and the US Amid Political Shifts
The German president calls for a firm European response to geopolitical challenges and highlights the importance of social reforms and democratic resilience.
In a recent summer interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized the need for Europe to assert its own model in response to what he described as a "new spirit of ruthlessness" promoted by Russia and the United States.
Steinmeier contextualized this emerging global dynamic as a "double epochal rupture" triggered initially by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and subsequently by shifting values in the United States. He argued that these developments have created an environment where major powers often disregard established international laws and rules.
European Strategy and International Order
According to Steinmeier, Germany and other European nations cannot adopt the conduct of great powers that operate without respect for legal frameworks. He suggested that while Moscow and Washington may temporarily benefit from a world devoid of order, the European response must champion a rules-based international system.
"We cannot do that. We need international order, we need law and rules," Steinmeier stated emphatically.
He also advocated for a pragmatic approach toward relations with the United States, deliberately avoiding direct references to then-President Donald Trump, signaling a nuanced diplomatic stance amid complex transatlantic ties.
Domestic Policy and Political Landscape
Turning to Germany’s internal affairs, Steinmeier praised a substantial social reform package introduced on July 2 by the ruling coalition led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. He described the reforms as a significant development but stressed that their ultimate impact depends on whether they can spur economic growth.
"Without economic growth, the current government cannot regain the respect and trust of the population," he remarked, urging patience and perseverance in implementing these reforms.
Addressing the rising support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of the September state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Steinmeier cautioned against complacency. While noting that current polls are not definitive election outcomes, he underscored the risk posed by extremist parties gaining ground in eastern Germany.
He explained that Saxony-Anhalt accounts for only about three percent of Germany’s electorate but insisted the trend must be taken seriously, especially with concurrent elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania looming.
"These are three important state parliamentary elections," Steinmeier said. He reiterated his prior appeals to voters to recognize the stakes involved, concluding, "You decide whether we preserve our democratic system."
