Germany’s Green Party leader, Franziska Brantner, has launched a scathing critique of the current German government’s foreign policy approach, accusing it of complacency and failing to adequately respond to the shifting geopolitical landscape. Brantner’s remarks, published in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, directly challenge the trajectory set by Friedrich Merz, the CDU’s parliamentary group leader who has increasingly assumed a prominent role in shaping Germany’s international posture.
Brantner’s primary concern revolves around the recently unveiled U.S. security strategy and its implications for Germany. “Trump is now getting serious – and we need to do the same” she stated, accusing the German government of remaining stuck in a “snooze-mode”. She implied the U.S. document’s implications extended beyond mere policy shifts, interpreting it as a veiled challenge to Merz’s influence within the CDU and possibly a broader attempt at political upheaval orchestrated with the AfD.
She questioned the effectiveness of Merz’s initial forays into foreign policy maneuvering, labeling his efforts a “brief flare-up” that ultimately failed to deliver on anticipated results. “Internationally, Friedrich Merz has raised expectations that he is not fulfilling, thereby weakening Germany’s role in the world” Brantner asserted.
Beyond internal power dynamics, Brantner emphasized the necessity for Germany and the EU to aggressively advocate for their involvement in any future negotiations concerning the conflict in Ukraine. “Otherwise, we will be on the menu” she warned, highlighting the risks of being sidelined by other powerful actors. She stressed that any such talks must prioritize the self-determination, territorial integrity and security of Ukraine, asserting that decisions should never be made “over the heads” of the Ukrainian people.
Addressing internal party debates, Brantner addressed the complex issue of Germany’s relationship with Israel and Palestine. While affirming the Green Party’s recognition of Israel’s right to self-defense and its need for weaponry to counter threats like Hezbollah and the Houthis, she also condemned the current Israeli government’s actions. “We do not close our eyes to the reality of the current Israeli government, which is doing everything it can to prevent a peaceful two-state solution” Brantner noted, signaling a rising tension within the party regarding its stance on the region.
