Trump's Ukraine stance draws sharp rebuke from German press
Donald Trump blamed Ukraine for the war with Russia, which was met with harsh criticism from the German press. Commentators accuse him of becoming a spokesman for the Kremlin, undermining the post-war global order and the transatlantic alliance.
The German press sharply criticized Donald Trump for his approach to the conflict in Ukraine. "Sueddeutsche Zeitung" assessed that the former US president abandoned Ukraine, becoming a spokesperson for Russia's interests. Stefan Kornelius noted that the United States has sided with Russia, which may lead to Putin's political triumph.
The president ceased to be an advocate of Ukrainian interests and, thus, an opponent of Russia, and has taken up Russian positions. A shift of this magnitude is unprecedented in history – evaluated Kornelius, cited by PAP.
Kornelius emphasized that US policy towards Russia is dangerous and directed against European interests. "Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung" noted that Putin achieved his goal by holding talks with Washington over the heads of the EU and Ukraine. Reinhard Veser pointed out that for Putin, the war with Ukraine is a conflict with the USA, in which Europe is merely a bargaining chip.
Criticism of Trump's strategy
"Die Welt" warns against Trump's dangerous strategy, blaming Zelensky for the ongoing Russian aggression. Caroline Turzer noted that such a stance supports the Kremlin's conspiracy theories. Europe must increase defence spending and prepare for independent defence without US involvement.
The defender of the free world blames a sovereign nation, whose people are bombed, tortured, and raped, for sharing responsibility for their suffering? And in doing so, supports the Kremlin's conspiracy theories? – asks Caroline Turzer.
"Handelsblatt" deemed Trump's accusations against Ukraine absurd. Christian Rickens compared them to blaming Poland for the outbreak of World War II. Trump repeats the Kremlin's narrative, which might lead to handing Russia influence in Eastern Europe.
Is Putin steering Trump?
"Leipziger Volkszeitung" wonders if Putin influences Trump. Although no one considers him a Moscow agent, there are speculations about possible compromising materials on the US president. For European allies, this situation is a cause for concern.
The German press expresses concern over the US's change in policy towards Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing that this could have far-reaching consequences for Europe's security.
