The concern vexing Mr. Annen, and much of official Berlin, was that Mr. Trump might not only withdraw American protection but also actively aid Europe’s growing internal and external threats. She also said she was worried that Mr. Trump was weakening Europe’s collective defense by questioning the value of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Still, the idea of Germany as a military power or even European hegemon — likely requirements for taking up the burdens and responsibilities of a leading European power in the Trump era — remains difficult. Eastern European states may look to Germany, whose economy is almost triple the size of Russia’s, to replace American security guarantees. Germany should focus on persuading Mr. Trump to drop his hostility toward Europe, Mr. Kiesewetter said, but “we should not wait” to consider acting.

Source: New York Times February 06, 2017 10:00 UTC