German president warns Trump's return marks profound rupture in transatlantic ties

RiddleMaster · 2026-03-24T10:52:00+00:00

German President Steinmeier stated that Trump's second term signals a significant shift in U.S.-German relations, urging Germany to reduce dependence on the U.S. and develop its own technological alternatives, emphasizing Europe's potential as a technology hub.

RiddleMaster

2026-03-24 10:52:00

Abstract generation in progress

BERLIN, March 24 (Reuters) - German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said the start of U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term marked a rupture in German foreign relations that was as ‌profound as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and required Germany to seek more independence.

“Just as I believe there will be no going back in relations with Russia before February 24, 2022, so too do I believe there will be ⁠no going back in transatlantic relations before January 20, 2025,” said Steinmeier, according to prepared remarks.

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Germany had to take the lessons it learned in extricating itself from “excessive dependencies” on Russia and apply them to the United States, particularly in defence and technology, he was due to say at a foreign office event in Berlin on Tuesday.

As president, Steinmeier’s role is largely ceremonial, ‌influencing ⁠society through his role as state representative.

Germany has placed an emphasis on creating alternatives to U.S.-dominated technology as concerns grow over U.S. access.

“We know that this technological lead means not only foreign policy ⁠power, but also the power to influence our domestic politics through digital platforms and social media,” said Steinmeier.

The spat between the Pentagon and Anthropic ⁠over safety guardrails surrounding the latter’s artificial intelligence could be a wake-up call, or even an opportunity, for Europe, he ⁠added.

“Europe as a technology hub has talent, markets, opportunities and, importantly, ethical standards. We should build on these,” he said.

Reporting by Andreas Rinke and Miranda Murray Editing by Ludwig Burger

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