Janice R. Andrews
Two weeks after Germany’s federal election, voters are grappling with pressing issues such as Donald Trump’s foreign policy changes, the ongoing Ukraine crisis, and the need for massive investments in infrastructure and defense. These concerns are shaping public opinion and influencing the direction of the next government, likely to be formed by the conservative CDU/CSU and the center-left SPD.
Germany’s Push for Massive Investments
The CDU/CSU and SPD have agreed on a plan to inject billions into Germany’s crumbling infrastructure and military. To fund these initiatives, a credit-financed special fund is being established, requiring a relaxation of the debt brake enshrined in the Basic Law. This move has garnered broad public support, with two-thirds of Germans favoring a significant budget increase for the Bundeswehr and 80% backing more spending on infrastructure projects, according to a recent Infratest-dimap survey.
However, the plan to incur hundreds of billions in debt has sparked debate. While a majority of CDU/CSU and SPD voters support the borrowing increase, the far-right AfD opposes it. CDU leader Friedrich Merz, the likely next chancellor, has vowed to do “whatever it takes” to strengthen Germany’s military capabilities. This commitment comes in response to Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy, which has left Germans questioning the reliability of the US as a partner.
US Trustworthiness Plummets Under Trump
Donald Trump’s policy shifts have significantly damaged the US’s reputation in Germany. Since taking office, half of Germans polled say their opinion of Trump has worsened, with only one in seven viewing him favorably. Trust in the US has hit a new low, with just one in six Germans describing the country as a trustworthy partner. Three-quarters believe NATO members can no longer rely on the US for protection.
The US’s abrupt suspension of arms deliveries to Ukraine has particularly contributed to this loss of trust. Ukraine, which has been defending itself against Russian aggression for three years, now faces uncertainty as European leaders struggle to fill the void left by the US. While 84% of Germans still view NATO as crucial for European security, there is growing support for a more independent European military alliance, with half of respondents favoring such a move.
Public Concerns Over Europe’s Future
Germans are increasingly pessimistic about Europe’s future. A staggering 73% are concerned about security in Europe, while 68% worry about the Ukrainian people, though this figure has dropped by 14% compared to two years ago. Two-thirds of respondents fear that Europe is at the mercy of Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with an equal number expressing concerns over the strained US-Germany relationship.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a focal point. While European leaders have pledged continued support for Ukraine, six out of ten Germans believe it is unrealistic for Europe to compensate for the loss of US backing. In the event of a ceasefire, half of respondents support deploying Bundeswehr soldiers for peacekeeping in Ukraine, while the other half oppose the idea.
Political Uncertainty at Home
Despite progress in coalition talks between the CDU/CSU and SPD, political uncertainty persists. Half of Germans worry that the next government will lack stability. Voter preferences remain largely unchanged since the election, with the CDU/CSU leading at 29%, followed by the AfD at 21%, the SPD at 16%, the Greens at 12%, and the Left Party at 9%.
A Shift in German Priorities
Germany’s push for greater military and infrastructure investment reflects a broader shift in priorities. The country is seeking to bolster its defenses and reduce reliance on the US, particularly in light of Trump’s unpredictable policies. However, the challenges of financing these initiatives and navigating a complex geopolitical landscape remain significant.
As Germany moves forward, the erosion of trust in the US underscores the need for stronger European cooperation and independence. With public opinion increasingly favoring a more self-reliant Europe, the next government will face the dual challenge of addressing domestic needs while navigating an uncertain international environment.
In the coming months, Germany’s ability to balance these priorities will be critical not only for its own future but also for the stability of Europe as a whole. The world will be watching as Germany takes on this pivotal role in a rapidly changing global landscape.
