Award-winning author Navid Kermani has voiced a critical assessment of the current relationship between the United States and Europe, suggesting a fundamental shift in dynamics. In an interview with “Rheinische Post”, Kermani stated that the U.S. is no longer a protective ally for Europe, but rather “a rival, at best a business partner.
He described a perceived disparity between European political rhetoric and the reality of the transatlantic relationship, noting a continued adherence to outdated notions of a strong partnership. Kermani contends that Europe has historically operated under the assumption of a deeper alignment with the U.S., a perspective he believes is increasingly inaccurate. He articulated a view of the U.S. perceiving Europe similarly to Africa – as a market, a subordinate entity, or a tool for its own interests – and emphasized Europe’s perceived vulnerability due to its reliance on American security guarantees.
While acknowledging the U.S. remains a democratic nation, Kermani predicted a continuing divergence in its self-defined role as a global order-keeper, regardless of the president. He pinpointed the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the scenes at Kabul’s airport – images of people clinging to departing American aircraft – as the pivotal moment illustrating this shift. He argued this event demonstrated the U.S. abandoning Afghanistan to the Taliban.
Kermani proposes that Europe’s only viable path forward lies in revitalizing European integration after a period of stagnation. He calls for a renewed drive to build a unified Europe with the same courage and ambition displayed in the aftermath of World War II.
