Finding joint solutions with them to limit its trade surplus towards Americans, the Vima tells Vima David MakalistterGerman MEP of the Christian Democratic Party (CDU) and chairman of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee.
How will the EU deal with President Donald Trump’s “divide and reign” logic, especially on tariffs?
“European unity is the key. Commercial policy is the sole responsibility of the EU. If President Trump is interested in new agreements, the Commission is the only point of contact. By observing the existing responsibilities between Brussels and Member States, we can seek parallels in medium and long-term commercial interests.
During the election campaign, Mr. The tone of commercial policy will be tougher over the next four years. Europe must clarify one thing in our US partners: duties are neither in our own interests or their own.
President Trump promised his voters not to allow the cost of living to increase further, the duties will have exactly this result. On the contrary, we need to work together to analyze the reasons for the EU’s trade surplus with the United States and find common solutions: to import more liquefied natural gas than the US.
Secondly, Europeans will spend much more on our security and defense in the future. Some of this money could be spent on US equipment. It would be good for Europe to accept Mr Trump’s wish for a “agreement”. We need to place Europe as a reliable partner – and not as a problem.
President Trump’s first term emphasized that such an approach could have the desired result: the overall duties that threatened then were eventually avoided through smart and mutually beneficial diplomacy. “
How do we react with Greenland?
“In the tense geopolitical climate, not only Greenland but the whole Arctic is a legitimate strategic interest in the US. Enhanced cooperation with Greenland and other parts of the region would make sense in terms of security policy, especially in view of competition with China and Russia. Since the 2000s, the People’s Republic of China has increased its involvement in the region.
President Xi Jinping has announced that his goal is for China to become a “great polar force” by 2030. This is not surprising in the context of China’s broader geopolitical ambitions. The Arctic is one of the few areas where the control of the future order has not yet been fully determined.
However, as a self -governing part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it is dominant. The questioning of the territorial borders is an attack on the international class and a setback to 19th -century imperialism. Historically, the US was guardians of this class, and the Trump government should avoid creating a different perception of the US.
It is important to avoid the impression that the power of international law can now be replaced by the “law of the strongest”. Such a turn would create a dangerous precedent in times of intense territorial differences worldwide.
It remains to see how it will be placed. Their possible closer cooperation with the US could also bring benefits to NATO security. However, both decisions should be made in Greenland. “
In terms of EU foreign policy, are we moving to more Atlantism or more EU independence?
“President Trump’s approach to NATO is essential for many European countries, as they are based on US security guarantees.
In anticipation with our transatlantic alliance, we must strengthen the European pillar within NATO. It is about strengthening our own defense resources and reducing our dependence on US military capabilities.
We must not underestimate the seriousness of this project, nor the commitment required by our side to complete this process. Currently, Europe is largely dependent on the US in almost all critical military categories. Staying transatlantic and becoming more European is the way forward. “
How do you see Ilon Musk’s intervention in German policy in favor of Alternative for Germany (AfD)? Could some results be achieved?
“Mr Musk has repeatedly made efforts to intervene in the political processes and elections here in Europe, including my homeland, Germany. This is unacceptable. The Law on Digital Services (DSA) clearly states that it is prohibited to disseminate and enhance hatred, incitement and falsehood to social media platforms. This also applies to Ilon Musk and X.
in a way that gives an unfair advantage to a particular political view on social media. The protection of our democracy and our basic principles is at stake – and the Eurovision will do everything it can to protect them. “
Is there a debate in the European People’s Party (EPP) on the future orientation of the party: to stay in the European Coalition or to work with the hard right (case of Italy) or the far -right (case of Austria)?
“The EPP has political competitors and opponents. Competitors are all parties that support a free, democratic and constitutional Europe. With those who aim to participate constructively in a political discourse with respect.
Democrats are capable of compromise and consensus. The parties that are pro -European support the rule of law and stand behind Ukraine, which is currently fighting, are our potential partners. The others are not. “
Is there a way to work with CDU with AfD if the latter gets high rates in the German elections?
“No”.
