At the commencement of Donald Trump’s presidential term, Sigmar Gabriel, the Chairman of the Atlantic Bridge and former German Foreign Minister, addressed the challenging dynamics Europe faces with the new U.S. administration. On January 20, 2025, Gabriel urged European nations to present themselves as one coherent entity instead of individuals seeking favor from the White House.
During interviews broadcasted on several media platforms, including phoenix and ZDF, Gabriel articulated his concern, stating, “We must look more at ourselves, and not like rabbits on the snake to the White House.” He underscored the urgency for Europe to cultivate strength and self-confidence, asserting, “The stronger Europe is, the easier it will be for us to cope with America under Donald Trump.” This reflection aligns with his broader call for European nations to unite and address their internal issues effectively.
Gabriel emphasized the necessity for leaders to not only declare their commitments on international platforms but also to meet the democratic needs at home. “Those who want to defend liberal democracy must first show at home they respond to the needs of the people,” he insisted, highlighting the disconnection between political promises made during campaigns and the ability to fulfill them once elected. His message is clear: to maintain credibility and trust, European governments must prioritize genuine engagement with their citizens.
Looking at the structural challenges within the EU, Gabriel pointed to the need for strong political leadership, which historically involved Germany, France, and Poland. He lamented the current lack of coordination among these nations, particularly as France's President Emmanuel Macron proposed ideas to bolster Europe’s resilience, which had largely gone unaddressed by Germany.
“Without collaboration, we (Europeans) won't have enough weight on the scales,” Gabriel warned. He argued for the necessity of Germany to regain its influential role within the European sphere, stressing, “The next federal government must reintegrate Germany’s strength back to serve the European Union.” The insistence on cooperation reflects Gabriel’s belief in collective strength against the backdrop of rising scrutiny of U.S. policies under Trump.
Gabriel's sentiments resonate with those observing the growing tides of nationalism and Euroscepticism throughout Europe, highlighting the risks inherent to this political environment. Presenting unity is imperative, as he argued, “We are at a point where Europe can also fail.” Faced with increasing pressure from the U.S. and its foreign policy decisions, European solidarity appears more important than ever.
He observed with concern about the tendency of various European leaders to prioritize national interests over collective goals—the first visits to Trump even before he formally took office illustrated this point. “It would be good if not everyone goes and tries to bring home the best for their country. Unfortunately, that's already started, with the first visits already being paid to Mar-a-Lago,” Gabriel mentioned, referring to the early international engagements and visits to Trump’s resort by foreign leaders.
Gabriel's overall commentary builds on his belief of the dissolution of the transatlantic values community during Trump’s presidency. “I was shaken by Trump’s inaugural address. There was no sense of grandeur or unity there,” he critiqued, signaling concern over the future of U.S.-European relations.
Despite the challenges highlighted, Gabriel remains hopeful about the potential for Europe to recover its leading role on the global stage, provided its nations address internal divisions and present externally as united partners. The stakes are high: Europe must fortify its democratic principles and collective strength to navigate the turbulent waters under Trump’s influence.
Gabriel's reflections serve as both a warning and guidance for European leaders on the road ahead as they grapple with Trump's America and the shifting global political terrain, urging them to embrace unity and strength over isolation and division.