If this were any other year, the upcoming federal election in Germany would be like every other German election: humdrum and focused almost exclusively on domestic issues. Despite their country’s size and economic power, Germans resist seeing their nation — or their chancellor — as a potential world leader. Over 80% of Germans want their country to participate in fewer military missions; 60% say Germany should be more reserved in international affairs more broadly. By electing Donald Trump, America has abdicated its traditional role as leader of the free world. Germans need to get over their aversion to global leadership; their country is not and cannot be a giant Switzerland.

Source: Los Angeles Times April 06, 2017 11:02 UTC